The PCC has often come under criticism on LibCon and elsewhere for the way it seems to regulate the press (or not). There are far too many instances to list here where it has not managed to get newspapers to correct even basic mistakes.

But rather than just complaining, a group of bloggers including yours truly are making a submission to the PCC.

A review of the newspaper industry’s Code of Practice is being conducted by the Editors’ Code of Practice Committee, a separate body that operates independently of the PCC. [slightly updated, see comments]

We have come up with five suggestions for the PCC code:
1. Like-for-like placement of retractions, corrections and apologies in print and online (as standard).

2. Original or redirected URLs for retractions, corrections & apologies online (as standard).

3. The current Code contains no reference to headlines, and this loophole should be closed immediately.

4. Sources to be credited unless they do not wish to be credited or require anonymity/protection.

5. A longer and more interactive consultation period for open discussion of more fundamental issues.

These recommendations are also being submitted to the Independent Governance Review (deadline today). We have slightly longer to send it to the PCC Editors’ Code of Practice Committee (31st January).

To help, you can also email them with these suggestions (if you agree of course) to:

governancereview@pcc.org.uk – (deadline today)
Governance site

ianbeales@mac.com
PCC link

Note: They will assume you are content for your submission to be made public unless you clearly state otherwise

More info: Tim Ireland at Bloggerheads.

Reader comments

1. Liberal Conspiracy

   Help us better the Press Complaints Commission http://bit.ly/6k45y6

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