Smith calls for tougher code of newspaper conduct
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The newspaper industry should introduce an even tougher code of conduct than that agreed by editors in the wake of the death of Diana, Princess of Wales, the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Chris Smith said yesterday. The tighter code could include formal arrangements for newspapers to interview the victims of crime on a "pooled" basis.
He also tentatively floated the idea that victims of press intrusion should be allowed to claim compensation from media organisations.
But Mr Smith reiterated his faith in the principle of self-regulation, saying he saw no case for privacy legislation. He welcomed the voluntary strengthening of the Press Complaints Commission's code of practice following the death of Diana in August.
Reforms include banning publication of pictures obtained illegally, or through persistent pursuit or "stalking", expanding the code's definition of private property, extending the definition of what constitutes a private life, and several other measures.
But Mr Smith, who first aired his views at a meeting of the Islington Victim Support scheme in north London, said he believed that the code needed further revision in some areas.
"I did say that the Code of Practice under the self-regulatory system needed to be strengthened in due course," he said.
"On the Code of Practice, we have already got the proposals that Lord Wakeham [PCC chairman] has brought forward strengthening the code. I made the point, a point I have made to Lord Wakeham, that once that is established, I believe there's a case for further strengthening."
His principal concern, he said, was for the victims of crime. "I'm particularly concerned that the victims of crime are better protected. Victims have become people of public interest through no fault or desire of their own - quite the contrary.
"Reporting them, seeking pictures, seeking interviews, that needs to be done with sensitivity."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments