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The Society of Editors and HMCTS host another successful court reporting roundtable in Wales

Posted on: November 5, 2019 by admin

The Society of Editors has today concluded its fourth successful court reporting roundtable event in Cardiff, Wales.

Representatives from HM courts and Tribunal Services (HMCTS) alongside various figures from the Welsh news media industry joined the Society to network and discuss ideas as to how media court reporting can be achieved more seamlessly.

The lunchtime meeting, held in association with WalesOnline is part of an ongoing series of roundtable events hosting those from the regional media and the courts from various locations in the UK.

The tour aims to build upon the recent work undertaken at national level to streamline and update the guidelines issued to court staff on working with the media.

The group is also helping to ensure the media’s views are heard in the development of HMCTS £1.1bn court and tribunal reform programme.

Ed Owen, Director of Communications said “We are committed to improving media access to courts as part of our wider commitment to open justice and this dialog with local and regional media is an essential part of making that happen”.

The Society of Editors Executive Director, Ian Murray commented “Once again these roadshows have proved their value in bringing the media and local courts closer together in the name of better open justice”.

The full guidance issued to HMCTS staff in conjunction with the Society of Editors can be accessed here.

The next roundtable discussion will be held this November 22 in Manchester, bringing together those from the news media industry and the courts in the North West.

Picture, L-R: Anwen Baldwin (Newsquest North Wales), Jason Evans (Media Wales), Ian Murray (Society of Editors), Nicole Garnon (South Wales Argus & Barry News), Ed Owen (Director of Communications, HMCTS).