The Edi ' - The Leveson Inquiry

! !~’ ij ¸
For Distribution to CPs
~ f the Preamo!a embraces the spirit of the Code, then Clause I
J goes to the heart of good practice. The Code does not demand
infallibility; it reouiras that care should be tel{an, It is about getting the
story nght in the first place, putting it right If mistakes are made and
-- where appropriate -- saying Sorry
This clause accounts for the majority of complaints to the PCC.
That will surprise no-one familiar with the pace at which newspapers
and magazines are produced, but it should not excuse reckless or
sloppy journalism.
The PCC ~as reminded editors that accuracy ;s particularJy
mportant in dealing with emotive topics such as asy urn seekers or
mental health, where there is danger of creating fear and hostility not
borne out by facts and where allegations are made, ahead of formal
proceedings, suggesting an individual has committed -- or is
suscected of -- a criminal offence.
The absence of a public interest exception to justify inaccuracy
increases the burden on editors "S~,6." ~c~./o;7 Siz #ub!ic ~l’l~/’~st ~
AS with all else in the Code, it is a c!uestion of balanca. Care must
~e taken to minimise both errors and their impact. Mistakes may ~e
heritable, but it is important ~hat they are put right swiftly and clearly
The Code rules on accuracy break down into two main areas,
covering pre-publicetion and post-publication.
The Code is careful not to demand perfect accuracy, which would
be impossible to achieve, instead, sub-clause ti obliges publications
to take care not to publish inaccurate, misleading or distorted
material, including pictures
That is e simple, practical and deliverable requirement, applying
to all they do ahead of publication, If sufficient care were taken, then
that ~3uld be a defance to any subsequent complaint. The tests to
apply would include such issues as:
Are there reasonable grounds for believing the piece is accurate?
Have proper checks been made?
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