The PCC is an independent self-regulatory body which deals with complaints about the editorial content of newspapers and magazines (and their websites). The Press Complaints Commission is charged with enforcing the Code of Practice which was framed by the newspaper and periodical industry and was ratified by the PCC in September 2009.
As it is clear that there was extensive coverage in the British media regarding the McCann's success in achieving a temporary ban on "The Truth of the Lie"; it is also apparent that there is now a responsibility by these same organisations to inform the British public about the Lisbon Appeals Court ruling overturning the ban on "The Truth of the Lie".
(NOTE: Please read the Code of Practice prior to making a formal complaint.)
The following excerpts from the Code of Practice are, in my opinion, relevant to complaints regarding the silence in the British media regarding the Lisbon Appeals Court Ruling. It cannot be said that editors are unaware of the development as numerous complaints to the editors have already been lodged.
1 ACCURACY
- i) The Press must take care not to publish inaccurate, misleading or distorted information, including pictures.
- ii) A significant inaccuracy, misleading statement or distortion once recognised must be corrected, promptly and with due prominence, and - where appropriate - an apology published.
- iii) The Press, whilst free to be partisan, must distinguish clearly between comment, conjecture and fact.
- A fair opportunity for reply to inaccuracies must be given when reasonably called for.
...
1. The public interest includes, but is not confined to:
- i) Detecting or exposing crime or serious impropriety.
- ii) Protecting public health and safety
- .iii) Preventing the public from being misled by an action or statement of an individual or organisation.
**************************************************************
E-mail: complaints@pcc.org.uk
Press Complaints Commission
Halton House
20/23 Holborn
London EC1N 2JD
Email: will.gore@pcc.org.uk
Available during office hours 9.00 to 5.30 Monday to Friday:
Helpline: 0845 600 2757 (a local rate call charge)
Scottish Helpline: 0131 220 6652 (a local rate call charge for those based in Scotland)
Welsh Helpline: 029 2039 5570 (a local rate call charge for those based in Wales)
Switchboard: 020 7831 0022
Textphone: 020 7831 0123
Facsimile: 020 7831 0025
Previous Article
