The Society of Editors has welcomed the publication of a newly refreshed Media Protocol, marking an important step forward in driving greater openness in the reporting of criminal proceedings.
Developed collaboratively by the Crown Prosecution Service, policing and media representatives including the Society of Editors, the updated protocol aims to help keep the public informed about criminal proceedings and what is happening in the criminal courts.
Following a period of public consultation, the protocol has been modernised to reflect major changes in legislation, case law, and policy since its original launch in 2005. It is designed to meet the demands of today’s fast-moving media landscape, while upholding the principle that justice should be administered in open and remain subject to public scrutiny.
Responding to the launch, Dawn Alford, Chief Executive of the Society of Editors said: “The media protocol is a vital tool that supports open justice and transparency by setting out clear expectations around the accessibility and timeliness of material made available to the media. The updated protocol forms part of a wider commitment made between policing bodies and the media to drive greater openness in the criminal justice system.”
The Protocol sets out clearly how requests from the media for material relied upon in open court as part of the prosecution process will be managed, supporting accurate and responsible reporting of criminal trials. It seeks to balance the public interest in open justice with the legitimate interests of others, such as victims of crime, witnesses and members of their families.
New user guidance has been introduced, offering practical support for police and CPS communications teams in handling the release of prosecution material. This guidance also clarifies for journalists and the wider public how the protocol will be applied.
Lisa Benbow, CPS Director of Communications: “The updated Protocol reflects important developments in law and the media landscape since the original was published and strikes an important balance between openness and the protection of those involved in cases, especially victims and witnesses.”
“It reflects a shared commitment with policing and the media to open justice and transparency in the reporting of criminal proceedings which is fundamental to strengthening public understanding and confidence in the criminal justice system.”
