FAQ

1.    Who sets journalistic standards in the UK?
There is no single document which sets out all the rules UK journalists must adhere to. Nor is there one body which oversees that standards are upheld across all media. Instead, there exist a number of bodies addressing journalistic standards, each with their own set of guidelines. The main ones are: The BBC Editorial Guidelines, OFCOM Broadcasting Code and The Press Complaints Commission Code of Practice.

2.    Is it against the law to publish/broadcast something which is not true?
If a media outlet publishes something which is untrue, this can be addressed in a number of ways. In the most serious cases the offended party can sue the outlet for libel. However, this is a civil rather than a criminal matter. The distinction between comment and opinion and news-reporting is particularly relevant here.

3.    How are the media expected to report controversial subjects like the Middle East?
News-reporting of any event should be objective and impartial. Therefore, conflicts in the Middle East should also be reported objectively and impartially.

4.    Shouldn’t journalists be free to say what they like about the Middle East?
Just Journalism believes strongly that a free media is vital in any healthy democracy. We also believe that the industry should uphold its own standards in journalistic reporting.

5.    How do I complain if I am unhappy with coverage?
There are a number of ways to complain about problematic coverage. The most common way is to approach the media outlet directly in the form of a letter or a request for a correction.  Alternatively, you can approach the relevant body which oversees output from that publication or broadcaster. For example, if the issue relates to The Times, you would approach The Press Complaints Commission. If it relates to Channel 4, you would approach OFCOM.

6.    Where can I find out more about journalistic principles?
Visit the Just Journalism Methodology page for links to all the relevant UK sources on media standards.

If you have a question that we have not answered here, please contact us and we will be in touch.