Not all that interests is of 'public interest.'(media reporting of the private lives of public figures in the United Kingdom)(Column)

Article Abstract:

Media reporting of the private lives of public figures in the United Kingdom involves a number of issues relating to rights of privacy and press responsibility that are not easy to answer. These issues have been highlighted by the case of the Foreign Secretary, Robin Cook, who is leaving his wife for a House of Commons secretary. Previous attacks on Conservative party politicians could be justified because of that party's moralising on the family. The Labor party argues that ideally marriages should be enduring, but this is not always possible. This does not mean that the press has no right to report Cook's affair, though we may not like the wayit has been done.

Politicians, Ethical aspects, Portrayals, Privacy, Right of, Right of privacy

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Weasel words in the last-chance saloon

Article Abstract:

Many UK newspapers place great emphasis on the fact that the Press Complaints Commission (PCC) has a voluntary Code of Practice. In fact, it is very rare for newspapers to follow the guidelines set down in this document, and most journalists remain unaware of its contents. It must be remembered that the press pays 1 million pounds sterling a year to finance the PCC, which is a relatively low cost for avoiding real privacy legislation. The Labour and Conservative parties behave as if they believe that no government can be elected or survive without the support of Rupert Murdoch, who owns 40% of the country's newspaper readership.

Management, United Kingdom. Press Complaints Commission

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Why we should all praise the power of our free press

Article Abstract:

It is true that newspapers have become an increasingly powerful force in UK society. However, it would be wrong to become extremely concerned by this development. The government has acknowledged that it must bow to the power of newspapers, and it is to be welcomed that newspaper coverage of controversial issues can force the government to review its policies. Newspapers provide a useful counterbalance to the power of the state, which, if unchecked, can be relentless.

United Kingdom, Government regulation, Analysis, Government and the press, Press policy

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