MAGAZINE OF THE NATIONAL UNION OF JOURNALISTS

WWW.NUJ.ORG.UK | FEBRUARY-MARCH 2020

‘Good evening from a hut near Chelmsford’ Modest beginnings for British broadcasting Contents

Main feature 12 Radio Shack Britains first ‘wireless’ station News he media is changing so fast that 03 BBC plans major cuts few jobs stay the same and unfortunately journalists cannot Corporation to axe 450 jobs always rely on the work they know best 04 Watchdog probes magazine takeover continuing throughout their careers. Major deal under investigation TDiversifying is a way of protecting yourself against a changing landscape and we have two 05 Newsquest withdraws cuts threat features on that subject. Move follows Scottish strike vote Neil Merrick speaks to journalists who made positive starts 06 Broadcasting authority refuses to act after being made redundant or leaving local newspapers by Anger over bans on journalists setting up their own local news websites. And Ruth Addicott finds out what it takes to succeed in media training, a pursuit “which can be a lucrative and useful sideline. Features As news and journalism rapidly reshapes, it’s also interesting 14 Earning from learning to look back at much earlier innovations in the media. Jonathan Media training can be lucrative Sale traces the very early beginnings of radio which began in a small hut near Chelmsford. 16 Growth on the home turf Meanwhile there has been a key victory in the NUJ’s long- Local news sites thriving running campaign on equal pay at the BBC with the ruling by an employment tribunal that Samira Ahmed should receive Regulars pay parity with Jeremy Vine. Nicola Slawson looks at the background to the case which will have implications for many 09 Viewpoint other journalists. 22 And finally... I hope you find something of interest in this edition of The Journalist.

Christine Buckley Editor @mschrisbuckley Arts with Attitude Pages 18 Editor NUJ [email protected] 72 Acton Street Design London WC1X 9NB Surgerycreations.com [email protected] [email protected] www.nuj.org.uk Advertising Tel: 020 7843 3700 Raymond Letters Melanie Richards Manchester office Page 20-21 Tel: 07494975239 [email protected] Snoddy [email protected] Glasgow office Print [email protected] Page 19 Warners Cover picture www.warners.co.uk Dublin office [email protected] Classic Image / Distribution ”Alamy Stock Photo GB Mail ISSN: 0022-5541 www.gb-mail.co.uk

The Journalist’s polyfilm wrapping is recyclable at carrier bag recycling points in supermarkets.

02 | theJournalist news BBC plans major cuts to news inbrief... BBC BOSS GOES TO NATIONAL GALLERY coverage and to axe 450 jobs Tony Hall, director general of the BBC, is to leave in the summer after PATRICK NAIRNE / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO THE NUJ has warned of an ‘existential threat’ seven years in the role. He will to the BBC after the corporation said it become chair of the National planned to cut 450 jobs in its news operation. Gallery. Sir David Clementi, BBC It will also cover fewer stories in a drive to save chairman, is searching for the next £80 million by 2022. Never have I felt the leader. The corporation faces a The award-winning Victoria Derbyshire mid-term review in 2022 and the (pictured) programme is being closed and BBC is quite under the renewal of its charter in 2027. Newsnight, Radio 5 Live and the World threat that it is now. Service’s English-language output face substantial cuts. Many believe how TUCKER TAKES REINS More journalists will be pooled in centralised “ AT SUNDAY TIMES news teams rather than working for specific decriminalises non-payment of the licence fee, we are funded is no The Sunday Times has appointed programmes and there will be more emphasis we know the impact will be further losses for longer appropriate Emma Tucker as its first female on online output. At Newsnight, 12 jobs will the BBC of around £200 million a year.” editor in more than a century. She go, its in-depth films will be halved and Fran Unsworth, BBC head of news, told staff: when consumers is deputy editor of the Times and spending on investigative journalism reduced. “Producing fewer stories means we have to be seem to prefer to pay replaces Martin Ivens, who is Michelle Stanistreet, NUJ general secretary, a smaller organisation.” She said the BBC was stepping down after seven years. said: “These damaging cuts are part of an under attack from changing media habits, for just what they use Ivens has joined the board of Times existential threat to the BBC, and a direct accusations of bias and threats to its funding. Newspapers and will contribute as consequence of the last disastrous, secret “Never in my career have I felt this a commentator and broadcaster. licence fee deal the BBC agreed with the organisation is quite under the threat that it is Fran Unsworth government. This is before the impact of currently. Many believe that how we are funded Head of News, BBC taking over responsibility for the over-75s is no longer appropriate when consumers seem GUARDIAN BANS OIL licences kicks in. to prefer to pay for just what they use.” AND GAS ADVERTS “Against this backdrop, the BBC’s very She said decriminalisation of non-payment Guardian Media Group has banned existence is being threatened, with public of the licence fee could trigger further cuts. all advertising from oil and gas service broadcasting under unprecedented companies across all its titles and threat. If the government goes ahead and Raymond Snoddy, page 19 platforms. It said the decision may make its short-term financial future ‘a tiny bit tougher’ but it hopes that the ban will attract some other Equal pay victory for Samira Ahmed brands to advertise. JESS HURD NEGOTIATIONS BETWEEN the NUJ and the BBC The employment tribunal said the BBC failed PRE-TAX PROFITS over equal pay are continuing following the to provide convincing evidence that the pay gap FALL AT DC THOMSON landmark employment tribunal win by the was for reasons other than sex discrimination. Pre-tax profits at Scottish publisher broadcaster Samira Ahmed. Ahmed said: “No woman wants to have to DC Thomson fell by three-quarters Ahmed, who presents viewer feedback take action against their own employer. I love last year from £86.4 million to programme Newswatch, claimed she was working for the BBC. I’m glad it’s been resolved. £21.1 million. The group, which owed almost £700,000 in back pay because of “I’d like to thank my union the NUJ [and] all publishes the Press and Journal, the difference between her £440-an-episode the women and men who’ve supported me reported advertising revenues rate and the £3,000 an episode Jeremy Vine and the issue of equal pay.” were down by 5.6 per cent to received for presenting Points of View. The battle for pay parity, page 7 £37.1 million for the year ending 31 March 2019.

No institute but tax breaks for news BUZZFEED FOUNDER GOES TO NY TIMES THE GOVERNMENT has ruled out as government interference in a The government agreed to a Ben Smith, the founding creating an Institute for Public free press. £1,500 discount on business rates editor-in-chief of Buzzfeed News, Interest News to help save the However, it said it was willing to for office space occupied by local has left the website eight years news industry. In its response to consider extending some tax newspapers in England, and it after helping to launch its US the recommendations from breaks, which could include said it would make a £2 million newsroom. He has joined the Cairncross review into the future removing the VAT charged on grant to the Nesta charity to New York Times as a media of high-quality journalism, it online news subscriptions to fall encourage innovation in the columnist and said he was “eager said such a body could be seen into line with printed newspapers. news industry. for a spell of writing and reporting and thinking”.

theJournalist | 03 JESS HURD Haiti, Nigeria, the The Competition and and Competition The Authority Markets at looking was “ deal the whether to be expected ‘may a substantial in result lessening of competition’ Philippines and Northern the each saw Ireland in death of one journalist civil and from violence unrest. political Alternatively, the watchdog the watchdog Alternatively, that in October said Future the marks The takeover What it bought In 2018, B2B bought It also be taken to “mitigate or “mitigate to be taken the substantial prevent of competition”. lessening in clear the takeover could were if it decides there March competition no serious concerns. the complete it planned to deal in the spring. in Future’s stage latest expansion. Practical Hi-Fi?, FourFourTwo, and Practical Caravan Haymarket. from Motorhome That deal publisher Newbay. in brands 49 B2B Future gave video, the television, entertainment, technology in mostly and music sectors as Music the US, as well Biz and Bike News Toy Week, in the UK. the lives of five journalists in journalists of five the lives in and four Afghanistan incidents Crossfire Pakistan. killed five and bomb attacks in three in Syria, journalists in Yemen. Somalia and two Among those excluded were journalists journalists were excluded Among those moving by concern caused No 10 has also and Guardian joined the walkout from a from joined the walkout and Guardian speech on a on the prime minister’s briefing deal. trade UK-EU and and the Mirror Association, the Press from UK and as Huffpost as well i newspapers, Home. Politics to Commons of the House from briefings Downing Street. Chris Proctor, page 22 page Proctor, Chris If it goes ahead with a were If it decided there Mexico tops the list of tops the list Mexico claimed attacks Targeted to begin a phase two two begin a phase to investigation. it will gather phase, second decide to evidence more is an there whether outcome” “anti-competitive the takeover. to the issues, anti-competitive then decide CMA would action should any whether the loss of life during 2019 2019 during of life the loss the same. largely remain with 10 countries dangerous killings of journalists. The death toll is the lowest The death toll is the lowest The Competition and The Competition has until The watchdog His move follows a walkout by journalists in journalists by a walkout follows His move Robert Kuenssberg, Laura editors TV political from the 95 deaths posted deaths posted the 95 from in 2018. when 37 2000, since and media staff journalists of causes the but killed, were it access to a much larger a much larger to it access readership. female (CMA) Authority Markets inquiry launched its merger it was saying in January, the deal looking at whether in result to “may be expected of lessening a substantial competition”. decide whether 16 to March Call for MPs to look into No 10 bans No into look MPs to for Call , who is running for , who is running for SIR KEIR STARMER for has asked Party, leadership of the Labour decision to No 10’s examine to the Cabinet journalists. selected to only briefings give who correspondents – political the lobby some – after briefings government attend a briefing. from excluded were as reporters as well Rigby and Beth Peston Sun, FT the Daily Mail, Daily Telegraph, from

ournalist

J

the

THE INTERNATIONAL of Journalists Federation killings of 49 recorded and media journalists year. last professionals drop This is a significant falls to its lowest for 20 years for lowest its to falls toll death Journalists’ Future, which publishes Future, The deal would add The deal would

In October, Bath-based Bath-based In October,

into major magazine takeover magazine major into Competition watchdog looks watchdog Competition 04 | said the takeover would give give would the takeover said 140-strong range of titles, of titles, range 140-strong Future’s portfolio. Future’s among its Film T3 and Total entertainment titles to titles to entertainment technology and technology new sports, home, sports, home, new £140 million. titles, women’s lifestyle, among other titles, for for among other titles, Times and Homes & Gardens Times and Homes & Gardens publishes Ideal Home, TV publishes Ideal Home, to buy TI Media, which to PCGamer, said it planned it planned said PCGamer, News, Period Homes and Period News, many titles include Cycling include Cycling titles many publisher Future, whose whose publisher Future, watchdog. Authority, the competition the competition Authority, Competition and Markets and Markets Competition investigated by the the by investigated publishing industry is being is being publishing industry in the British magazine in the British magazine the biggest takeovers takeovers ONE OF the biggest news news Compulsory cuts threat inbrief... TELEGRAPH PULLS OUT OF ABC AUDIT withdrawn after ballot The Telegraph Media Group has quit the ABC newspaper circulation THE THREAT of compulsory redundancies also appreciative of the speed by which the audit, saying it is no longer a key at Newsquest’s Scottish titles, including bullying issue was resolved and of the metric for its subscriber strategy. The Herald, The Herald on Sunday, the company’s assurance that bullying will not The last figures showed the Daily Glasgow Times, The National and The Sunday be tolerated. The relief among our members Telegraph had an average National, has been lifted following a large was palpable. Our members are circulation of 317,817 in December vote for industrial action. “Management has agreed to meet the while the Sunday Telegraph had Some 86.7 per cent of those voting in an union’s reps regularly, and to have routine heartened that their 248,288. Both had declined 12 per NUJ ballot supported staff meetings to deal with the employer has listened cent since December 2018. action over the plan to problems expressed through make compulsory our recent stress survey. Any “and that no member redundancies if management restructure will of staff will be forced GUARDIAN CLOSES Newsquest could not throw up issues for our CITIES SECTION save £500,000 by any members, and we look to leave The Guardian has closed its Cities other means. forward to working more section after grant money funding Although eight closely with Newsquest it from the Rockefeller Foundation members of staff left management to create an John Toner for more than six years came to an voluntarily, the acceptable working NUJ national organiser end. The section focused on urban company told the environment.” for Scotland environments and climate change union that it would not The NUJ had conducted and won the Features Journalism seek further job cuts. Six new posts will be a stress survey during the weeks before prize at Press Gazette’s British filled from external applications. the company’s original announcement Journalism Awards last year. A well-attended NUJ chapel meeting voted about potential compulsory redundancies. unanimously to withdraw the threat of This found: 83 per cent of respondents industrial action. believed the quality of their title had declined NEWSQUEST OWNER The union had also raised the issue of over the past year; 78 per cent said their GIVES OUT £140,000 bullying, and it said that the company had workloads had increased in the past Newsquest has donated more than dealt with this promptly. year; 57 per cent said they were put under £140,000 to 40 UK community John Toner, NUJ national organiser for pressure to produce work faster than groups , including news-related Scotland, said: “Our members are heartened they were comfortable with and just nine per charities, through the charitable that their employer has listened and that no cent said they had confidence in the arm of its US owner. The Gannett member of staff will be forced to leave. We are organisation’s management. Foundation gave £10,000 each to the Journalists’ Charity and the National Council for the Training of Second bursary in honour of Lyra McKee Journalists’ Diversity Fund.

THE CENTRE for Investigative 25-27 June but cannot afford become an investigative working class background. IAIN GRANT WINS Journalism is offering a to do so. journalist despite personal The bursary was launched BARRON TROPHY second Lyra McKee training The bursary is in honour of disability and having to care last year and enabled Iain Grant, a reporter who has bursary for people who want the murdered journalist and for her disabled mother plus 11 people to attend the covered the north of Scotland as a to attend its Investigative NUJ member, who showed the added difficulty of trying conference. freelance and previously editor of Journalism Conference on huge determination to to enter journalism from a https://tcij.org. the Caithness Courier and John O’Groat Journal, received this year’s Barron Trophy, which recognises lifetime achievement in journalism Top dog or dogsbody at work? in the Highlands and Islands.

IS YOUR job good or bad? Take part in a quiz compiled by Cardiff NEW WEEKLY PAPER University and you will be able to see how your position compares FOR SOUTH DEVON to similar jobs and against the average job in Britain. Archant is to launch a weekly paper The quiz does not require any identifiable information so the and website in South Devon after a answers you give cannot be traced back to you. By completing the suggestion from local news quiz, the anonymous data you provide will be collected and may veterans that there was a demand be used in reports for the NUJ and GMB. from residents. The Torbay Weekly It should take only five minutes and you can exit the process at will be based in Torquay and is any point. expected to have six dedicated https://tellmehowgoodismyjob.com/ editorial and commercial staff.

theJournalist | 05 news

Broadcasting watchdog RTÉ appeals over declines to probe radio bans retirement ruling IRISH BROADCASTER RTÉ is appealing against THE NUJ is disappointed that the Broadcasting Dooley said: “It beggars belief that the the Workplace Relations Commission’s Authority of Ireland (BAI) has decided not to Broadcasting Authority of Ireland would allow determination in favour of an NUJ member investigate Communicorp’s interference in the Communicorp off the hook after a clear who had challenged enforced retirement on editorial independence of its radio stations. admission the company banned certain the grounds of age. The decision was confirmed to Séamus Dooley, journalists from being interviewed on stations Anne Roper, a producer director, was NUJ Irish secretary, by Michael O’Keeffe, the owned by Communicorp. awarded €100,000 in compensation after RTÉ authority’s chief executive. The NUJ had pressed “The announcement by Communicorp that was found guilty of discrimination, contrary to for an investigation after Communicorp banned the ban had been lifted appears to have been section 79 of the Employment Equality Act. Newstalk, Today FM, 98FM, Spin 1038 and Spin accepted by the BAI as a welcome concession The NUJ had sought, through internal South West from featuring journalists from The rather than what it was – an admission of procedures, to have her employment Irish Times and digital outlet the Currency. The interference by commercial management in extended by 18 months but the broadcaster ban on Currency journalists was later rescinded. who should appear on news programmes.” insisted that she should retire at 65, even though her contract was silent on the issue of a retirement date. She subsequently took a correspondents’ group, touring case to the commission. Roy hangs up council hat seaside conference venues to Séamus Dooley, NUJ Irish secretary, said the ROY JONES, a founding member North Wales NUJ branch, said he cover unions and labour issues. comprehensive determination identified the of the NUJ’s 60+ council, has now had to consider safety in He joined the NUJ in 1982 when need for clear criteria in relation to longer decided to stand down from the travelling to meetings. Before he started at the Star. working and transparency around retirement: group after 10 years’ service. retirement, when working for the Before becoming a journalist, “The appeal adds stress to the individual and Roy, a union veteran who lives Morning Star, he was part of the he worked in the oil industry and will delay the implementation of a consistent, in North Wales and is chair of the once-powerful industrial in construction. coherent and transparent retirement policy in RTÉ predicated on the fairness.”

Middle East publication is looking to recruit news reporters and copy editors who are fluent in English and preferably with knowledge of Middle East and North African issues.

Please send CV along with application to: [email protected] and [email protected]

06 | theJournalist equality

a campaign group made up of hundreds of reporters and producers at JESS HURD JESS the corporation, who asked not to be named, said that as soon as Ahmed’s hearing ended, the group noticed a change in approach by the BBC. “Within a few days, various managers and HR managers were approaching women with outstanding claims and asking ‘what would it take in monetary terms to make this go away?’ ” she said. Despite this, the BBC Women founder, who has attended numerous Nicola Slawson on hearings and appeals and fought and won her own equal pay case, criticised the implications of the BBC’s decision to continue paying Samira Ahmed’s for employment consultants Croner to assist with the deluge of complaints tribunal success made since it published its gender pay report in 2018. She said: “It is unforgivable that the BBC is spending licence fee money – which it doesn’t have enough of – on independent experts who have absolutely been given a job of finding against women.” Many women have been repeatedly The battle for told they do not have a case, only to get to a tribunal and be told they do. “All that money, all that time, all that obfuscation takes place to gaslight women and makes us think we don’t have a claim,” she said. pay parity The BBC should carry out an honest reappraisal of the pay process, she said: “I’m hoping the next director-general amira Ahmed’s part to take forward this case. No one not only accepts that there are cultural employment tribunal wants to battle their employer in a issues that need addressing but will success over equal pay public tribunal hearing, but the BBC’s actually do something about it.” S at the BBC has been failure to meaningfully negotiate made A BBC spokesperson said it was hailed by the NUJ as a legal proceedings inevitable.” “committed to equality and equal pay”. ‘resounding victory’. Carrie Gracie, who became the face The spokesperson added: “Where we’ve The presenter took her employer to of the equal pay struggle at the BBC found equal pay cases in the past, the tribunal after learning that her after quitting her role as China editor, we’ve put them right. However, for us, colleague Jeremy Vine was being paid said she hoped Ahmed’s victory “gives this case was never about one person, £3,000 per episode for BBC 1’s Points of courage to women everywhere to stand but the way different types of View. In contrast, Ahmed was paid up for the value of their work”. programmes across the media industry £440 for Newswatch, which is shown While negotiations around the attract different levels of pay.” on the BBC News Channel and BBC consequences are ongoing and the BBC The broadcaster added that it was Breakfast and is a similar format. has remained tight-lipped about considering the judgment and would Ahmed told the tribunal, which whether it will appeal against the ruling, have to decide whether to appeal soon as concluded in November, that she it’s clear the case could have far-reaching All that money, all appeals must be lodged within 42 days. “could not understand how pay for me, implications for the broadcaster. that time, all that Caroline Underhill of Thompsons a woman, could be so much lower than If the BBC does not appeal, it could “ Solicitors, who represented Ahmed, as Jeremy Vine, a man, for presenting very be left with a huge bill for Ahmed’s obfuscation takes instructed by the NUJ, said the ruling similar programmes and doing very back pay as well as the cost of was “a warning shot to the BBC that similar work”. potentially large settlements over place to gaslight complacency around pay inequity is In her judgment, Judge Grewal said it similar claims by other female staff unacceptable, and will not go was clear from the evidence that bringing equal pay cases. women and makes unchallenged. Ahmed and Vine did work that was “the A spokeswoman for the NUJ “The ball is now in the BBC’s court: same or, if not the same, very similar”, confirmed that about 20 similar cases us think we don’t they need to heed the lessons from this and that any differences were ‘minor’. were in the tribunal system, and as have a claim judgment and engage in meaningful At the time Michelle Stanistreet, NUJ many as 70 cases were unresolved at negotiations with the NUJ to ensure general secretary, said: “It was an the time of publication. genuine pay transparency, and pay incredibly brave decision on Samira’s A founding member of BBC Women, equality, for all employees,” she said. ” theJournalist | 07 finance BA CRAWFORD The loan Alarm over danger radio loan Henry Bonsu claims safeguards were ignored when he guaranteeed a loan to a broadcaster. David Hencke reports

journalist is taking his said the founder of Colourful Radio, fight against one of the Kofi Kusitor, had placed undue country’s largest banks influence on him to get the loan and an A to the High Court over agreement with him absolved him a debt he incurred from paying it back. The bank also when the media company where he declined to produce as witnesses four was a director, Colourful Radio, went bank officials who were handling the into liquidation in 2014. loan who could be scrutinised to see if Henry Bonsu, a 52-year-old the bank had followed proper broadcaster, has been caught up in a procedures in granting it. This included legal battle with HSBC for six years the crucial point as to whether the over a £30,000 loan secured by a bank had insisted, as it should, that he Lord Jones, who has given him £2,000 signed personal guarantee in 2009. got independent advice before signing towards his crowdfunding, said: “The He is now facing a £78,000 bill from the guarantee. bank have behaved unconscionably HSBC for their legal costs and interest Kusitor could also have been called over this. Nowadays, such a procedure on the loan after losing a county court as witness as he signed a similar loan would not happen. The bank officials case in December. with a guarantee at the same time. who handled this should have been at Following an adverse judgment from The bank’s lawyers challenged the court and asked questions about the county court judge, he has filed claim that Bonsu had been put under exactly what happened.” It is papers seeking permission to appeal undue influence by Kusitor or that they understood that efforts to get the bank the case at the High Court and is had any agreement not to pursue to change its mind went to the top but running a crowdfunding appeal, which Kusitor for an earlier loan taken out for that it decided to leave it to its lawyers has attracted support from many £30,000 when Henry Bonsu was not to get the money. prominent TV and print journalists as working for it. However, they did not HSBC did not comment on Lord well as Lord Digby Jones, a former trade say that Kusitor had got a further loan Jones’ criticism. minister and director general of the with a personal guarantee in 2009 at A spokesman from the bank said: Confederation of British Industry. the same time as Bonsu signed his. “The judge did not accept Mr Bonsu’s The case highlights the treatment of Evidence by one bank witness to the criticisms of HSBC and the evidence small businesses by the big banks and trial said Bonsu was accompanied by he gave at trial. In his view, the some of the events surrounding the another man she did not know and guarantee was valid and Mr Bonsu was case seem Kafkaesque. He believes he she did not see him sign a loan fully aware of the effect, scope, has “been stitched up”. guarantee document. The bank officials contents and potential consequences Superficially, the case is simple. However, while Kusitor vehemently who handled of signing the guarantee so ordered Bonsu signed a bank document and denied putting any influence on Bonsu “ him to repay the debt he owed in gave his personal guarantee for a loan to get a loan in a public Facebook post, this should have addition to interest and costs. to support Colourful Radio. Colourful he says he did get a loan at the same Mr Bonsu asked the judge on the day Radio went bust and the bank time as Bonsu. been at court and for permission to appeal the judgment demanded its money back from him The bank also said Bonsu had got a but this was refused as having no because he had signed the guarantee. solicitor to witness his personal asked questions prospect of success. We await the Colourful Radio is now back in business guarantee and this amounted to outcome of any further application debt free. getting independent legal advice. about exactly Mr Bonsu makes to ask for permission But, as the court case revealed, the The judge found for the bank, what happened to appeal the findings.” situation was more complex. In their ordered Bonsu to pay the money plus evidence, Bonsu’s lawyers claimed that interest and costs and refused https://uk.gofundme.com/f/ matters were not straightforward. They an appeal. henry-bonsu-defence-fund 08 | theJournalist ” viewpoint

Control freaks and Corbyn’s catastrophe

Trying to set the news agenda cost Labour dear, says Francis Beckett

abour has gone down the political agenda. Practical one of his minders – a senior adviser to stunning defeats politicians know, as Harold Macmillan – bustled into the room and rudely before, but never one put, that what decides the agenda is evicted the journalists, saying this was L like that in December ‘events, dear boy, events’. a ‘private interview’. 2019. There had always In June 2018, Corbyn and his staff I was there, and managed to get been formidable opponents before. met the Board of Deputies of British Corbyn alone for a moment. He was This time, Labour faced a prime Jews. It could have started a dialogue. surprised that he had been told minister despised for his But Corbyn said almost nothing at the nothing about an interview request untruthfulness, laziness and contempt meeting. Milne did the talking, and from two left-wing writers he knew for democracy, and detested by the became animated on the subject of fairly well. “Of course I’ll talk to you and most senior members of his own party. Israel, accusing it of ethnic cleansing. Mark,” he said. How could Labour lose? In my part of The Board of Deputies went away Unfortunately, the minder caught north London, they think Jeremy with the sense that Corbyn was not him at it, and brusquely hustled him Corbyn is an anti-Semite (he isn’t). In interested in the issue. That grew as away to stand somewhere else for the other places, they think he’s a dangerous Corbyn seemed to give ground inch by cameras (although no cameras were revolutionary (he isn’t that either). inch, reluctantly and with bad grace. present), while another of his Voters were more frightened of him I was one of several writers who failed entourage told me grimly: “Jeremy than of Johnson. Remainers were more to get any sense out of Corbyn’s office often says he’ll do something. That horrified by Corbyn than by Brexit. His on this issue. Former Tribune editor doesn’t mean it will happen.” It didn’t. failure to communicate was epic. Mark Seddon and I were commissioned Having given Johnson an election at Facing a fiercely hostile media, to write a book about the new Labour the most favourable time for Johnson, Corbyn refused to engage with those leader. My repeated phone calls and Corbyn’s strategists ran an election who could have been won over – emails on anti-Semitism produced campaign with no focus, no clear journalists, those who feared him and only a cross phone call from Seumas to message and no flexibility, and kept all those who were not certain – and with Seddon, berating us for including the the party’s most effective broadcasters the two big issues of Brexit and issue in the book at all. away from broadcasting to make room anti-Semitism. Mark and I wanted to paint a for Corbyn loyalists. Corbyn’s PR people, led by sympathetic though not uncritical Their legacy is five years when communications chief Seumas Milne picture of Corbyn, but we didn’t even Johnson can do whatever he likes, and a (a former op ed editor and labour get the normal help any journalist The press office Brexit that a clear majority of the editor at the Guardian who Corbyn expects of any press office. They seldom voters do not want. More people voted privately called ‘the great Milne’), returned our calls or answered our seldom replied. for remain parties than leave parties, imagined they could write the news emails. Other sympathetic writers tell a Other sympathetic yet Labour managed to turn this into a agenda. They did not wish to talk about similar story. I think we were considered victory for Johnson’s peculiarly Brexit and anti-Semitism, so Corbyn not quite reliable. Corbyn was allowed “writers tell a uncaring version of Brexit. sounded cross and grudging every time to engage only with true believers. similar story. Perhaps they wanted victory within he was forced to do so. In June 2018, Corbyn was in Brighton the Labour Party, not victory for the Corbyn knew he was the problem. to address the Fire Brigades Union Corbyn was allowed Labour Party. Whatever the truth, Several months ago, he desperately annual conference. The FBU arranged Corbyn’s advisers have – like Milne’s wanted to resign, but his advisers that he would also record an interview to engage only with hero Arthur Scargill – done dreadful talked him out of it. There’s a story that with one of their officials. true believers harm to the cause they serve. they refused to let his sons into his The questions were agreed with • Jeremy Corbyn and the Strange room until he agreed not to resign. Corbyn’s office in advance, and the Rebirth of Labour England by Milne is a theoretician in the Marxist union told journalists covering the Francis Beckett and Mark Seddon sense, and thinks politicians can write conference they could listen in. But is published by Routledge ” theJournalist | 09 positive news

more noble principles of journalism.” She isn’t advocating that journalists merely produce feel-good news or add a silver lining; problems should still be

MATHIAS SVOLD MATHIAS People are avoiding reported, but it should be recognised the news. Showing that these aren’t the end of the story. “It’s about asking what’s next – including a it’s not all bad will longer time frame on an issue, so we are able to see beyond the initial impact of a bring them back, tragedy or disaster,” she says. “By reporting on solutions, we may also be says Veronique able to learn about how other Mistiaen communities have addressed problems.” For journalists trained that ‘if it bleeds, it leads’, this might seem counterintuitive. Jackson is often asked: “How can we report solutions if we want to keep people informed about what’s going on?” “This is one of my favourite and most frustrating questions because it assumes problems and solutions are mutually exclusive, or that by learning about solutions you become ignorant to problems,” she says. “But solutions don’t exist in the Taking the absence of problems. They are a part of the narrative – a necessary informational addition that enables us to negative out of fully understand the issue.” Jackson also believes that including solutions can boost accountability and provide a foundation from which people can demand change. the news In recent years, many outlets – have adopted elements of ‘constructive’ early one in three – those that reported on solutions. journalism. They include the Guardian, people say they actively “I experienced a really powerful the Economist, the BBC, De avoid the news, mostly change when I changed my media diet. Correspondent in the Netherlands, N because it lowers their I then wanted to understand this on a Reporters d’Espoirs in France, DR News mood. But it’s also collective level; I went back to university in Denmark and the Solutions because they feel powerless to change and researched the impact of the Journalism Network in the US. what is happening, according to the negativity bias in the news on our With her book, Jackson aims to bridge Reuters Institute for the Study of mental health and the health of our the gap between industry and Journalism’s 2019 digital news report, society, as well as what happens when consumers. “Almost every industry that based on data from 38 countries and we include stories of solutions,” she says. has had a huge and sustained shift six continents. She condensed her 10 years of Perhaps the towards a more positive purpose has Author and campaigner Jodie Jackson research into You Are What You Read commercial required an informed consumer. If we (pictured) is not surprised. “I got to the – Why Changing Your Media Diet Can “ change the way we consume the news, point where I couldn’t bear to hear Change the World, a book to help environment has industry will change the way it another news story because I found it readers understand the impact of the produces it,” she says. so depressing. Constantly hearing news on them and give them the tools compromised She hopes that her book will speak about problems made me feel helpless to create a healthier media diet, looking to journalists too. “Hopefully, it will and hopeless about the state of the for solutions, positive change and the more noble challenge the long-held perception world,” says Jackson, who holds a progress rather than just problems. that solutions are inconsequential, master’s degree in applied positive She concludes the news environment principles of trivial puff pieces and create a psychology and is a partner at the needs better moral guidance: “Perhaps it journalism credible case for greater reporting on Constructive Journalism Project. is the commercial environment and solutions. Reporting on solutions does Rather than switching off, she started immediate feedback on consumer not undermine their role as looking for stories that gave her hope engagement that have compromised the journalists – it enhances it.” 10 | theJournalist ” Malta

Caruana Galizia’s murder overshadows Malta’s media, says Ross Davies

social media, TV and newspapers. It means we can’t get our message across.” Muscat says “only a handful of true In search of investigative journalists” now exist. Georg Mallia, who teaches media at the University of Malta, has noticed that, since Caruana Galizia was killed, “many journalists who once showed real promise in exposing the truth have sold out for the sake of survival.” the truth Then there are strategic libel suits (SLAPPs). By the time of her death, n an interview shortly so in an empty private members’ club Caruana Galizia was facing 42 of these, before she was killed, off the main thoroughfare; Delia is mainly brought by politicians and Daphne Caruana Galizia barred from the café across the street. businesses. The Shift and Lovin’ Malta I spoke of a climate of “I get called a traitor a lot,” he says. have been the targets of similar lawsuits. fear deterring Malta’s “When I speak about justice for Daphne, Costing little to plaintiffs, but journalists from reporting the truth. I am accused of betraying my country. requiring time and money to defend, The country’s foremost investigative While we are not thrown in prison, what SLAPPS are widely used to intimidate journalist, Caruana Galizia was never we do get to be is completely discredited. journalists into self-censorship. Most one to shy away from a story. For this, Destroy a journalist’s credibility and you media outlets threatened with SLAPPs she endured unprecedented levels of don’t need to incarcerate us.” Many journalists give in and remove stories. intimidation – not least arson attacks With the majority of Malta’s media who once showed David Casa MEP, of the opposition and the slaying of a family pet – before controlled by political parties, high-level “ Nationalist Party, is pushing for an EU the car bombing that killed her outside corruption often goes unreported. Even real promise anti-SLAPP directive. “The use of SLAPPs her home on October 16, 2017. outlets that claim to be investigative to silence journalists is an affront to Ripples of scandal have since reached rely financially on the state. in exposing the Maltese media freedom,” he says. the top of Maltese politics, culminating in “The complete lack of regulation A public inquiry looking into who the resignation of Prime Minister Joseph around government advertising is a truth have sold ordered the assassination of Caruana Muscat after government officials were massive problem,” says Tim Diacono, Galizia. It is desperately hoped this will implicated in the murder. Malta has also political editor of investigative news out for the see people held to account and provide slid to 77th place in the Press Freedom site Lovin’ Malta. “Ratio-wise, the answers for her family. Index – with Bulgaria and Hungary the government’s advertising budget here sake of survival The pursuit of press freedom only two EU members faring worse. is more than in any other European continues. “This is about democracy,” says Caroline Muscat is the editor of The country, and that goes right across Muscat. “If we don’t defend it – who will?” Shift News, an online platform that has run investigations into organised crime HEMIS / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO and money laundering on the island since its launch in November 2017. ” Last year, The Shift exposed a network of closed Facebook groups, whose members included senior state officials, which supported making threats to journalists. The network had more than 60,000 members – around 14 per cent of Malta’s population. Muscat was close to Caruana Galizia and, like her, receives almost daily abuse. “I get the witch analogies a lot,” she says. “Recently, a picture of Daphne was posted on one of these groups next to my photo. The text alongside it read: ‘One witch has disappeared, and then another appears’. Someone commented below: ‘This one deserves a few more bombs.” Manuel Delia, who became a full-time political blogger after Caruana Galizia’s death, is also no stranger to harassment. We meet in Valetta, we do

theJournalist | 11

Jonathan Sale on how broadcasting grew from a humble hut near Chelmsford

originally hired for their skills in twiddling the knobs rather than tickling the ivories, could be kept up until only the end of the first week of March. Broadcasts then become more sporadic but they certainly involved fees – 25p to an amateur soprano from a local factory and a whacking £1,000 (paid by the proprietor of the Daily Mail) for Dame Nellie Melba, one of the few Radio operatic singers after whom an ice cream dessert is named, to traipse all the way to Essex to warble Home, Sweet Home. Unfortunately, there were complaints – not from listeners, it should be said. Unharmonious officials declared that the signals were interfering with communications to aircraft and shipping Shack and, in November, the plug was pulled. It was not plugged back in until two years later. In the roadcasting in Britain started at primitive aeroplanes, he began working in “a meantime, listeners in Britain had to make do 7pm on February 14 1922. To put long, low hut for long, low people” – ie at with a Sunday afternoon concert from Holland it another way. from a small hut Marconi’s in Writtle. with occasional interruptions by air traffic B in Writtle near Chelmsford, the There had been a time when the few thousand control from Croydon airport. Marconi Company had geeks or ‘hams’ licensed to tickle their hissing Finally, harmony was restored and, in established a short-lived experimental radio ‘cat’s whisker’ sets could truthfully grumble that mid-February 1922, 2MT Writtle prepared to hit station which, without being part of the BBC, put “there’s nothing on the radio” because there the airwaves again, now with a new transmitter. out our first regular broadcasts (on Tuesdays wasn’t. In order to fill this gap in the market, the There being no Radio Times until September only). Its faint whisper on a long-wave signal led long, low people began to put out long-wave 1923, the wireless societies were sent a note of to the mighty roar of the big broadcasting signals: actual programmes or, to put it no more the time and date. events to come: the abdication speech of Edward highly, words and music. In the last week of A script was prepared, consisting largely of the VIII; Winston Churchill declaring we would fight February 1920 ‘2MT Writtle’ put out two repetition of ‘Here is a gramophone record them on the beaches; the Queen’s rainy half-hours of snippets read from newspapers, entitled…’ The first platter (as they didn’t say) was coronation on black-and-white TV; David records from a wind-up gramophone and live then followed by a three-minute silence into Attenborough and David Dimbleby in living performances provided (free) by Marconi staff which any official announcements would be colour; Boris Johnson not being interviewed by members. Don’t laugh: there are local radio dropped. “At 6.50pm, there was a loud explosion Andrew Neil. stations now offering less. from the transmitter,” wrote Eckersley’s son There had been earlier transmissions over this This daily format, delivered by technicians Myles in Prospero’s Wireless in his biography of

new-fangled medium. These were initially in SHAUN HIGSON COLOUR / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO Morse code, and included those giving weather became the first local forecasts for Wisconsin (presumably on the lines radio station. The year of warnings of ‘outbreaks of dashes followed by The rat’s whiskers 1973 saw, or rather scattered dots’). TO EDUCATE, inform until the start of ITV in fire of Grace Archer in heard, the first Guglielmo Marconi of Bologna, one of the and entertain the British 1955. The Archers, cunningly commercial radio early wireless inventors, had offered his services public, but with NO news This began, not with a scheduled for the same stations, LBC and Capital. to the Italian government, which clearly decided gathering, advertising or real programme but an evening. Channel 4 followed in that these mysterious gizmos would never catch controversial content to outside broadcast of the Much more radio 1982. Channel 5 started on. Fortunately, he had an enthusiastic reception be originated by the dinner in the Guildhall to competition for the BBC up in 1997, in premises in Britain, where he moved in 1896 to set up his company” is the commemorate the arrived in 1964 – this originally occupied by own manufacturing company. summary of the aims of channel’s launch; it is no time on the high seas TV-am. Captain Peter Pendleton Eckersley (known as the British Broadcasting wonder that 20 million from Radio Caroline and The TV-am breakfast PP – many radio pioneers were identified by Company, whose radio listeners chose instead to other pirates. time show brought wake-up calls to the their initials) was one of the leading boffins at service began in 1922. switch on BBC radio for BBC2 also started up nation only from 1983 to Marconi’s before becoming the first chief BBC television was the dramatic death by that year, adding colour switched on in 1936 but in 1967, which was the 1992 and is fondly engineer of the BBC. At his co-ed boarding screens went blank in year Radio 1 started remembered for its school, Eckersley had built his own radio 1939, with a long broadcasting (presenters puppet Roland Rat and transmitter and receiver, which was used to send intermission included many of the also for Anna Ford cricket scores from the more distant pitches and until 1946. pirates whose ships throwing a glass of wine also to lure girls into the chicken hut where he With only one had been sunk by over the executive she kept his technical gear. channel, there was hostile legislation) and blamed for sacking her, After his war service, which involved no choice of viewing BBC Radio Leicester Jonathan Aitken. communications by primitive radios in

12 | theJournalist

Looking back to: 1922 HULTON DEUTSCH

his father. “One of the condensers blew up.” It “before” that broadcast and it now looked as if was replaced but, thanks to a misreading of the Eckersley would not be enjoying much “after” in label, with the wrong condenser. the business. This in turn was soon replaced but, in a few The bigwigs were furious at this anarchic, weeks’ time, another explosion followed, this outrageous display – but, again, not the time from the bigwigs ‘upstairs’ (if that’s the listeners. Enthusiastic letters and cards poured apposite word for a workplace based in a hut). in from all over the country, begging for more of The anger was sparked off by the fact that, the same. The postmaster general – the official compared with the sober engineers who ultimately responsible for radio – held his peace, doubled as presenters in his team, Peter realising that these hordes of wireless folk Eckersley was very much a live wire – perhaps should not be dismissed; they all had votes. And, too highly charged. On Tuesday afternoons, a adds Eckersley junior: “It was now plain that the piano would be trundled into the hut, on loan government had to establish some sort of from the pub; the multitasking presenter could British national broadcasting service… here were be heard announcing the next item, then his some signs that Writtle might be a forerunner.” footsteps as he ran to the piano, then his It was indeed. The British Broadcasting JEFF MORGAN 14 / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO opening chords and, finally, his voice. Company (as it was first known) was set up soon Most of the records they were provided with usual on his motorbike and roared up the lane afterwards and Eckersley became its first chief were rejected as being too highbrow, according to take over from an increasingly horrified engineer. 2MT Writtle’s regular scheduled to a colleague, the highly initialled RTB Wynn, a duty engineer. broadcasting lasted for less than a year. quarter of a century later. He added: For Myles Eckersley, this could well have been No recordings survive but the actual hut, “Programme planning was done at the Cock and “the moment when the human face of British after being used as a cricket pavilion, was shifted Bell up the road about half an hour beforehand.” broadcasting was inaugurated”. His father was, to Sanford Hill Museum in Chelmsford as a Today, that might sound like standard practice in the words of his son, “part amateur comedian place of pilgrimage for radio enthusiasts. for some stations but it would have rung alarm and actor, and part chattering professional Further details can be found at Radio Emma Toc bells in 1922, especially if the bosses had known technician… songs, rhymes, pub stories, (www.emmatoc.com). Yes, that’s a website, that Eckersley’s tipple of choice when gargling anything; but no records, no official pauses. It a concept that no one could have dreamed of before the show was not water but gin. was an approach quite unlike anything that had back in the early 1920s – not even the great One fateful March evening, he left the pub as gone before.” There was, of course, not much PP Eckersley.

theJournalist | 13 freelancing Earning from learning

“You could be training a room full of professional footballers Ruth Addicott explains how to make who’d rather be out on the pitch or the singer of a new guitar media training successful and lucrative band who thinks interviews are stupid. You could be training one of the finest surgeons in the world who has been elected to speak on behalf of an NHS body. The company that hired you hile freelance rates are falling on print might think you’re brilliant – but the person you’re speaking publications, there is one area that continues to might see you as a threat. It can be a real act of diplomacy.” to thrive. As Prince Andrew demonstrated on Jones says you have to think on your feet, especially if there W Newsnight late last year, some people need is a technical hitch or the office has no media screen. He was media training – and it is in demand. Whether once booked to train three people and turned up to find 15. it’s crisis management or securing coverage, journalists know Dr Janine David is a GP who specialises in sexual health and what it takes to get in the spotlight and are increasingly did media training with Glenn Kinsey when she increased her drafted in to help out. TV and radio work. While some might argue that media training can stand in “I felt I needed it to build confidence as a presenter,” she the way of a good story, for many freelances it is an says. “There was lots of information regarding how to speak interesting sideline and a means to support their income confidently in front of camera, and even practical tips such as from journalism. what to wear. It certainly improved my skills at presenting, I So how does it work? How do you get into it? And how well now feel much calmer and in control when I speak in public.” does it pay? Manchester-based freelance Helen Nugent provides Journalist and broadcaster Karen Kay started media coaching alongside lecturing, copywriting and editing website training after she was approached by a PR and asked if she Northern Soul. With a business journalism background and could help prepare a client for a media launch. A former Sky 10 years on The Times, Nugent has created a niche helping News correspondent with a background in tabloids and broadsheets, she held mock interviews and sessions on how to handle challenging questions and was soon receiving example, freelance journalist advised some to avoid facing numerous requests to run workshops. Top tips and podcaster Suchandrika the media,” says Simon Read She has worked with brands such as Laura Mercier, Sony Chakrabarti (suchandrika. (linkedin.com/in/simonread). Mobile, Odeon, Crowne Plaza, Adidas, Duracell and Twinings Fixing a fee com) covers social media “People pay for your and structured each session around the clients’ needs Factor in how much work is strategy, search engine expertise – not to pander to whether it was TV or radio studio based, or in their office. involved. “It’s vital to value optimisation, writing for the them. Base your training on “Most media training businesses focus on crisis comms your journalism experience web, mobile journalism and your experience. I tell people and the corporate sector, which I also do, but I’ve created a and expertise,” says Karen interviewing, but says the how journalists will react, niche working with consumer brands to support their Kay (shootthemessenger.tv). biggest demand is for not how to pitch.” spokespeople,” she says. “I help brand ambassadors, including “Being booked for half a podcasting. chefs, make-up artists and hair stylists who do practical day isn’t actually half a Be professional demonstrations, with appearances on TV shopping channels day’s work – you need to Know – or no “You need to be a confident and magazine shows, as well as news interviews.” invest substantial time If you haven’t got the skills, businessperson, with clear Like many freelances, Kay was working from home, largely preparing, so quote fees say no. Andy Jones terms and conditions and in isolation and found the sessions fulfilling as they were accordingly.” (andyjones.co.uk) says: agreed contracts,” says Kay. interactive and her experience was valued. “People want different “Discretion is imperative – Journalist and broadcaster Andy Jones writes for nationals Prepare things. If you’ve worked 20 and professional ethics. I and glossies and has fronted programmes such as BBC’s Create a professional years on a national and they never blur the lines between Inside Out and Channel 4’s Dispatches. He has been media website, boost your LinkedIn want to set up a YouTube working as a media trainer training for 10 years and offers a multimedia package from profile and get reliable channel, have you got the and as a journalist. I’m radio and podcasts to press release writing. He’s worked with equipment and insurance. skillset to do that? You’re sometimes exposed to companies such as O2 and Virgin Money. Create a product that is only as good as your last job.” sensitive information so I “To be a media trainer, you’ve got to be a Swiss army knife useful, sellable and engaging. have to draw a line and treat – have the tools to be able to do a bit of everything,” he says. Don’t pander every client as if I have “You’ve got to be able to stand in front of people who are at Skills “I am totally honest about signed an NDA (non the top of their game and pass on knowledge and skills in a Assess your skills and clients’ strengths or disclosure agreement) – way that gets them on side and shows them you know what research your markets. For weaknesses and have even which I often do.” you’re doing.”

14 | theJournalist freelancing Earning from learning

financial PRs and companies get into the business pages of pursue more training opportunities. Two years ago, she nationals and trade/B2B magazines. branded her business Shoot the Messenger and developed a She advises on interview technique as well as basics such as strong web presence. when to call journalists during the day, which she says “I see huge potential,” she says. “I’ve done a lot of research benefits journalists as well as PRs. To be a media on rates and work with a trusted network of specialist “I used expertise in areas that I’d written about for years journalists, news anchors, crews and studios to deliver and understood,” she says. “Be aware that you have a lot of trainer, you’ve sessions. I’d certainly say I can earn the equivalent or more valuable information and don’t undercharge for it.” “ than the sort of salary I would expect if I had risen through Deciding what to charge is a challenge. Rates can vary from got to be a Swiss the ranks in a newspaper, magazine or TV and reached £250 an hour to £1,000 a day. Agencies such as HarveyLeach, army knife – executive level after almost three decades. I see this as a new, founded by journalists Andrew Harvey and Graham Leach rewarding chapter in my working life.” charge around £3,900 a day for press and broadcast media have the tools to While media training can be well paid, it carries a lot of training with two tutors and one camera operator. responsibility, especially when it involves crisis management. Rates depend on the client, content and length of session, be able to do a bit “Very often, companies don’t realise they need media and it can take months before an agreement is reached. training until they’ve had a Prince Andrew moment,” says “Most of my agonising is what am I going to put in my of everything Jones. “It’s high pressure. You could sink a company or lose session and what am I going to charge,” says Jones. someone their job if you’re not very good. It’s not just “Sometimes you walk into a company and you’re being paid a standing there talking about how to be a journalist – you’ve few hundred quid then you look around and think, ‘bloody got to lead from the front, entertain and engage people and hell, they spend more than that on croissants’. give them the skills that you promised. If you’re good at it, it “It’s difficult to price. Often the client doesn’t know what can be lucrative – but it’s a difficult art.” they want themselves. I’ve been paid £1,500 for a day’s work and that’s a good rate, but that’s not what you get every day. I do it case by case. I can ” do an hour for £250, but I wouldn’t charge a day rate of £2,500.” Simon Read was personal finance editor at The Independent and started media training after being made redundant in 2016. Read coaches senior executives in banking, investment and insurance, providing one-to-one training and crisis communications courses. “I tell people what journalists need so that they can be as helpful as possible,” he says. “I teach them to be truthful rather than trying to be evasive. Fees vary, but I would advise anyone thinking of offering the service to start at £1,000 a day.” Although rates in Manchester are not as high as those in London, Nugent finds it a lucrative sideline. “Of all the jobs I do, media training is the best paid because it’s corporate,” she says. Disillusioned with the fees in print journalism, Kay has shifted her focus to

theJournalist | 15 hyperlocals Growth on the home turf Neil Merrick talks to people who make local news matter

ithin 24 hours of being made redundant last courts or inquests. “It’s much harder knocking on people’s May, Sally Churchward came up with a way doors and asking them to advertise,” he says. she could carry on working as a journalist in Like many independents, Brighton and Hove News is Southampton. hosted by Wordpress. It has a core readership of about W Keeping it local: Frank Churchward had been a feature writer at 50,000 people who visit the site at least once a week. While LeDuc in Brighton (photo the Daily Echo for 18 years and edited its lifestyle supplement. relatively cheap to set up, online titles will almost certainly by Julia Claxton) and Sally Having seen many colleagues lose their jobs, it was not a huge require further investment to ensure they look professional. Churchward in Southampton surprise when her turn arrived. Le Duc eventually paid an agency about £3,000. “We were (photo by Chris Balcombe) Given 10 days before she would leave the newsroom for the quite demanding on the people who helped us,” he says. final time, she decided to set up a website. Not only would the Nowadays, Le Duc works with a co-editor, takes arts reviews site feature community and human interest articles like and football stories from enthusiasts who work for free, and those in the Echo, but it would also include material that may shares a local democracy reporter with five other titles, not necessarily appeal to traditional titles. including the Argus. “I’m never going to grow rich,” he says. In Common was launched in August, with articles on “It’s hard to make money out of journalism or from the everything from hedgehogs to transgender issues. internet as a journalist if you want to provide community Churchward had expected to put some of her small news, but it’s not impossible.” redundancy package into the venture but ultimately raised Unlike many regional sites, independents such as Brighton £800 through crowdfunding and has since received further donations, including £200 from a vegan co-op. The biggest sense of loss in leaving the Echo was no longer 20,000 unique visits per feeling part of the community. It was gratifying to hear Thriving site built month and is mostly funded people saying they would miss her articles, and receiving through advertising. Most messages on Facebook from people she did not know. on a ‘hard grind’ people are alerted to the Most articles published by In Common are timeless and, for stories via Facebook, now anyway, the site is not taking adverts. Visitors can, if they WHEN TONY Millett moved events, the town council and although some go directly to wish, donate via a fundraising page. “There is no point in to Marlborough in 2007, the many other issues. the site. trying to compete with the Echo,” she says. former managing editor of Residents are mostly Stories about the high Nationally, an estimated 300 independent news outlets Channel 4 News was appreciative of the news street are particularly (sometimes called hyperlocals) operate instead of or alongside anticipating a quiet service but they can fail popular, as is health traditional titles. While there is no guarantee of success, retirement. to realise that the site is run coverage. Each year, the site setting one up presents an option for journalists who lose But 13 years on, he and by volunteers. makes enough to sponsor their job or anyone concerned about lack of community news. other volunteers who run Millett recalls an email he sports clubs and the town’s “Fifteen years ago, it was not an option,” says Matt Abbott, Marlborough Online News received complaining that an literary festival. The only project officer at the Independent Community News Network, are as busy as ever, accident had not been money claimed by journalists based at Cardiff University. “It’s become easier to set up a sometimes working the reported. is mileage. new publication.” equivalent of a 35- or “People assume we are “It’s a hard grind,” says Brighton and Hove News was launched 10 years ago by 40-hour week. there. That’s one of the Millett, who also worked at Frank Le Duc and carries a range of news, sport, culture and Back in the 1990s, two things that upsets me. They News at Ten. “We’ve been opinion. He dislikes the term hyperlocal, pointing out that his weekly newspapers had have no idea how much work trying to find extra people site serves a wide area, albeit not as large as that covered by offices in the Wiltshire town. goes into it,” he says. for a long time and failed. the Brighton Argus where he was once deputy editor. Those days are long gone. The team of four in charge There aren’t people in the Le Duc, who has also worked for national media, respects Without the website, set up of Marlborough Online News town or area who are the Argus but now sees it as a rival. Five years ago, following a in 2011, there would be have a variety of journalistic experienced and prepared to redesign, his site decided to take adverts – an experience that virtually no coverage of local experience. The site receives work for nothing.” proved more difficult than interviewing bereaved relatives at

16 | theJournalist hyperlocals

and Hove News do not bombard readers with pop-up advertising or other distractions. The same is true of Blog Preston, set up in 2009 by Ed Walker, then a student at the University of Central Lancashire, and now co-edited by Rachel Smith and Kate Rosindale. Smith, who previously wrote court reports for the website as a freelance, is proud of its quality and content. “You don’t have to complete a survey to read a story,” she says. A former staffer at the Lancashire Post, she continues to freelance for other publications while co-editing Blog Preston. As well as stories about crime and missing people, the site carries council news, which is generally well read. “We’ve a lot of local contacts. Our Facebook inbox is always pinging away,” she says. “We try to keep everything local and relevant.” to be flourishing more than others. It is not unusual to find In 2014, Blog Preston became a community interest sites with broken links, and contact details for journalists company, and its surpluses are reinvested in the business. (including phone numbers) can be elusive. More recently, it began selling recruitment advertising along “The sector is incredibly diverse,” says Matt Abbott, with other advertising. The website also raises money from It’s hard to make pointing out that creating a news website carries the same ‘instant articles’ ‘promoted on Facebook. These articles load risk as any business start-up. Some are run by journalists who onto the social media site far more quickly than they would money out of spot a news gap locally but rely on other jobs to make a living. on to the website and the articles then direct readers to the “ In some cases, a title may start online and then a print website. Relations with the Post are good, with Blog Preston journalism or edition is launched to attract more advertising. Others start supporting campaigns run by the paper. Most importantly, from the internet as protest magazines and expand or disappear. “It’s not just the website makes her feel part of the town where she was financial pressures that may mean a business fails,” he adds. born and grew up. “I feel like it’s my community,” she says. as a journalist “It can be personal issues such as family problems.” “I say: ‘I’m Rachel from Blog Preston’ – and people know who Back in Southampton, Churchward is aware that, since its you are.” if you want launch, everyone has provided articles for In Common for Llanelli Online was started three years ago with an office free. The article on hedgehogs was written by her web opposite the building where the Llanelli Star, a print paper, to provide designer, while another volunteer is photographer Chris was once based. It has a team of five including editor Alan community Moorhouse, a colleague at the Echo before he was made Evans and focuses entirely on Llanelli – readers object if it redundant in 2017. reports an accident on the M4 a few miles outside the town. news, but it’s Moorhouse, also a freelance, is pleased to be involved with Wales News Online is run from the same office and carries a media outlet that values good pictures rather than using news from throughout Wales. Funding comes from not impossible those by “reporters with iPhones”. advertising, with a Welsh Government grant of £200,000 In the long run, Churchward would like to pay contributors. helping to pay for journalists. “We are churning out more Perhaps £10 per hour in line with the living wage, although content than any local newspaper,” says Evans. that throws up the issue of whether non-journalists should However, Carmarthenshire Council does not place notices receive the same as journalists. with Llanelli Online as it does not “conform to the definition For now, she is pleased that her site is helping to cement of a newspaper”. A monthly print magazine closed after six community cohesion in Southampton. “I didn’t want to lose editions as it did not attract enough advertising. that sense of community,” she says. “I always valued being Around the UK, some independent news websites appear ” able to give people a voice.” theJournalist | 17

first stand-up tour in seven years, revisits his favourite pub, The by Tim Lezard promising: “This tour won’t be Woolpack, winter skating, the another arsehole comic talking about church throughout the seasons and his girlfriend or the funny things his playing jazz records in the privy on a kids do or the funny things cats do or wind-up gramophone. how he doesn’t understand the https://tinyurl.com/wscovey internet or bleeding Brexit… This is ALEXEI F*CKING SAYLE you’ll be Outspoken seeing.” With PR like that… Deborah Coughlin www.alexeisayle.me/appearances/ Ebury Publishing History didn’t listen to women, but that never stopped them from artsFilm > rubbishing of Jones’s work led to his speaking out. With contributions from Richard Jewell expulsion from the country and Boudicca to Michelle Obama, via Joan On general release possibly early death in China. of Arc, Virginia Woolf, Oprah Winfrey The role of the US media comes under www.facebook.com/MrJonesFilm/ and Greta Thunberg, this is a scrutiny in this film about security celebration of outstanding and guard Richard Jewell, who was vilified Music > outspoken women everywhere. by journalists who falsely reported he Phil ‘Swill’ Odgers Grace Campbell https://tinyurl.com/wfzd2jb was a terrorist. Directed by Clint Uke Town On tour Eastwood and based on true events, This limited edition double album Comedian Grace Campbell is a Theatre > the film shows how Jewell found an from the Men They Couldn’t Hang woman in her own right. She’s also Kunene and the King explosive device at the 1996 Atlanta guitarist features 18 tracks, all written the daughter of Tony Blair’s spin Ambassadors Theatre, London Olympics, saving thousands of lives or played on a ukulele. doctor Alastair, which explains the Until March 28 but, within days, became the FBI’s https://tinyurl.com/vh2w4z6 title of her show Why I’m Never In John Kani’s stunning reflection on number one suspect. Going Into Politics. Expect vagina 25 years since the fall of apartheid, www.warnerbros.co.uk/movies/ jokes, mental health within ailing actor Jack Morris (played by richard-jewell Parliament, anecdotes of hanging Anthony Sher) is joined by live-in nurse out with Putin’s kids plus trying Lunga Kunene (played by Kani). These Mr Jones (and failing) to bring the Labour very different characters are brought On general release Party back together. together by a passion for Shakespeare. If you thought fake news was a www.disgracecampbell.com https://kuneneandtheking.co.uk modern concept, this film about journalist Gareth Jones will make you Brutus Jonathan Pie think again. The ambitious Welshman On tour If no news is good news, then good travelled to the Soviet Union in 1933 Belgium-based Brutus merge different news is fake news. And so exasperated and stumbled upon the Holodomor ideas and musical tastes: post-rock reporter Jonathan Pie returns to the – the manmade famine that killed construction, metal dynamics with road once more to berate the people millions in Ukraine. Blanket coverage hardcore energy and prog rock, all in power. of the Communist Party’s denial and laced with pure pop melodies. But www.jonathanpie.com don’t let that put you off. Catch their King John unique sound this spring. Books > Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon www.wearebrutus.com Down in the Valley Until March 21 Laurie Lee Rosie Sheehy stars as King John in this Comedy > Penguin Classics rarely performed Shakespeare play. Alexei Sayle In this tribute to the Gloucestershire Set in the 1960s, this take on a nation On tour landscape that shaped him, Laurie in Europe-induced turmoil includes a The Young Ones star embarks on his Lee, the author of Cider With Rosie, massive food fight, a handbag- wielding cardinal and Charlotte Spotlight > Randle’s heartbroken Constance. frank admission from The www.rsc.org.uk/king-john Sweet frontman Brian Music reporting on the record Connolly. Poetry > “Elvis Presley cost me to tribunal after a slanging a bigger ******* **** than Graham owns more Yr Arwr my job” is a headline match with his Harrow she is.” than 3,000 LPs, and this The greatest honour for any Welsh better suited to The Weekly Post editor over a “I think you should leave amusing, entertaining and poet is to win the chair at the National Sport, but it appears in review copy of an Elvis LP. immediately.” warm tome is a semi- Eisteddfod; in 1917, no one collected Graham Sharpe’s book “The editor tells me you There are other tales of autobiographical love the prize. Winner Ellis Humphrey Vinyl Countdown. called her a ******* ****,” his time as a cub reporter, letter to records, record Evans, known as Hedd Wynn, had The NUJ life member, the MD told him. “You including his passing-up collecting/collectors, and died in the Battle of Passchendaele six who you might know as a should apologise to her of the first ever interview secondhand record shops. weeks earlier. Read the original spokesperson for William immediately.” with the young Elton John www.oldcastlebooks. manuscript of the winning poem at Hill, explains how he went “If you think that, you’re and an astonishingly co.uk/vinyl-countdown the National Library of Wales. https://tinyurl.com/v4r9lzx

18 | theJournalist on media

We need to act now to save the BBC

The corporation is in ministers’ sights, says Raymond Snoddy

he trouble with the At least £80 million has to be saved Then there were the allegations of BBC is that when the by 2022 and that, inevitably, will mean bias against the BBC for its Brexit and time comes for 450 jobs will be lost. general election coverage and T difficult decisions to Once again, it is being partly aggressive reaction to Andrew be taken, it is never dressed up as an act of modernisation, Neil when he fought back against entirely straightforward. a move towards reaching younger Johnson’s failure to turn up for his When BBC Three was turned into viewers, many of whom have deserted election interview. BBC III and taken off the air as a traditional broadcast news for These things could pass but the broadcast channel – one of the first in online and mobile, for YouTube evidence of underlying malice is more the world to go online only – it was and Instagram. substantial and dangerous. dressed up as a way to find absent Yes but. While there has always been Johnson said the BBC should younger viewers. room for reducing duplication at the ‘cough up’ the money for the free It was that in part, but the channel BBC, are fewer journalists, programmes licences without any apparent lost enormous visibility as a result and and stories really the answer to a knowledge or interest in the the main motivation for the move was significant problem? implications. He then added, to cut costs. Better by far to acknowledge the completely inaccurately, that the BBC It would have been better if the BBC primary truth – cost cutting – and had agreed to pay. had come clean about that. direct the blame at those responsible: Johnson wants to look at the When outgoing BBC director general a bullying Conservative government decriminalisation of the licence Lord Tony Hall negotiated the current and, to a lesser extent, BBC top fee, something that looks reasonable royal charter, he declared it a great management and members of the then but would actually be deeply deal overall. BBC Trust who probably acquiesced damaging. It was not. The best that could be said too much. A previous Conservative government of it was that it might just have been The loss of so many good people at appointed David Perry QC in 2015 to the best deal possible in difficult BBC news is painful and, alas, things investigate and he found the current political circumstances. are almost certainly going to get worse system was, overall, in the public It contained the time bomb that is – perhaps much worse. interest. Decriminalisation would about to go off this year – the BBC’s Over the years, governments of all increase evasion and the BBC estimates accepting, under duress, responsibility political persuasions have fallen out the bill would be 200 million a year. for free licences for the over 75s. with the BBC, particularly during The list of attacks It is the threat to the licence fee, Wisely, the BBC exercised its right general election campaigns. which is now under formal not to continue free licences for all But, until now, there has been on broadcasters is consultation, that is most alarming. over 75s, which would have cost nothing like the oafish behaviour of frightening – from Could Johnson use his large majority £750 million a year rising to £1 billion Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his to try to overturn a royal charter by the end of the decade. extraordinary chief adviser Dominic the ban on ministers agreement protecting the licence Instead the corporation agreed to Cummings, a long-term opponent of “ fee until 2027 and bring in a fund free licences for those over 75 on the BBC and its licence fee. appearing on the subscription system? pension support at a cost of around The list of attacks on broadcasters is Today programme Would he dare to use the mid-term £250 million a year. frightening – from the ban on review in 2022 – the BBC’s anniversary And it is that bill and the need to ministers appearing on the Today to threats to year – to go for a crowd-pleasing make other savings that lie at the heart programme to threats that Channel 4’s Channel 4’s licence licence fee cut? of the reason why 450 jobs are going to licence could be reviewed after the Be warned: there has never been a be lost at BBC news and current affairs, channel used a block of ice to replace Conservative government like this one, including the closure of the Victoria the missing Johnson at the leaders’ and the fight to save the BBC from its Derbyshire programme on television. climate change debate. clutches should start now. ” theJournalist | 19 inbox

Email to: [email protected] ç Post to: Please keep The Journalist YourSay... 72 Acton Street, comments to London WC1X 9NB 200 words Tweet to: inviting letters, comments, tweets maximum @mschrisbuckley

£30 H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H back in No 10 with an increased prize majority, workers’ rights facing more letter restriction, longer prison sentences Journalist article on NUJ and, most likely, empty promises on ending austerity. charity got great results As trade unionists, we could do with just a little bit of mere anarchy to On behalf of the beneficiaries and trustees of NUJ Extra, may I thank show the government of this country Ruth Addicott for the excellent explanation of the work of NUJ Extra who should really be in charge – The payment that changed my life, October/November 2019). As a the people. direct result of the article appearing: three members volunteered as Donnacha Delong welfare officers; one member set up a Gift-Aided monthly donation; four London members enquired about the charity helping them; one branch set up a monthly donation; and two branches made one-off donations. Catch up with 400 years None of these members knew about NUJ Extra before your article. of regal history A lack of space meant you listed only one online fundraising method. I was disappointed to see a reference to The full list is: Easyfundraising, TheGivingMachine, GoRaise, Give as you our present monarch as the ‘Queen of Live and Amazon Smile, as well as setting up a fundraiser on Facebook. England’ in the Journalist (Why did the Despite the payments per purchase often being in pence, these media not ask the Irish question?, methods contribute £100s each quarter. Many are automatic once online December 2019). shoppers sign up, without any extra user input. I urge online shoppers England has not had its own queen to enrol with one or more of these and select NUJ Extra as their since 1603 (more than four centuries chosen charity. ago – surely long enough for anyone to You can also donate via payroll giving, Gift Aid, using our online Caf have caught up), yet such references Bank donate page, setting up sponsorship pages through the likes of are common even in good newspapers JustGiving or Virgin Money Giving and in wills. and magazines. Thanks for all The Journalist’s support. To paraphrase a Guardian letter-writer Chris Wheal on a day a few years ago when I was

DENIS CARRIER Chair, NUJ Extra doing a shift on the letters desk – and you wonder why a lot of Scots want H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H independence. Sheila Miller The East End News Curtis and Sally Hibbin, who went on to Anarchy in the UK? If London opened doors to many produce films with Ken Loach, were only that were the case It’s a pity there was no room in Phil among our contributors. Val McCalla, Séamus Dooley asked in the last Serious words on Europe Chamberlain’s piece about the who edited our Black Voices page, issue if Brexit presents a vision of are needed, not jokes alternative press (Paste-up politics, would eventually turn it into The Voice anarchy in the UK (Why did the Nick Inman’s letter is greatly December 2019) for the weekly East newspaper. Viv Walt went on to media not ask the Irish question?, appreciated (Journalism fails public End News, which was also represented become an award-winning foreign December 2019). duties over Brexit, Letters, at the Bristol event. correspondent with Time magazine, Anarchy is a situation where December 2019). Founded after a series of industrial and Len Brown became a TV producer. government and social hierarchies This time last year, some of us were disputes by members of London East And as well as featuring women cease to exist and power rests with bemoaning the lack of a Ladybird book NUJ Branch, including Aidan White, sports reporters – another rarity in the the people. on the EU: not a clever, flippant joke Kate Holman, Phil Mellows and myself, early 1980s – we had Gladys, Cath WB Yeats knew this well, as he was book but a coherent, well-researched it broke new ground as a workers’ and Jackson’s scathing cartoon character acquainted with anarchists including 52-page guide to what it is, how readers’ cooperative backed by the tearing a strip off politicians and the William Morris, Oscar Wilde and Jack it works and the pros and cons of union and the tenants’ movement. prevalent racism and sexism of the day, White. It might even have been a dig. membership. At the time, it was also a beacon for alongside work by many graphic artists similar to his reminiscences of the rebel But here we are a year later and it’s diversity when journalism was even who honed their skills with us. sisters Eva and Constance Gore-Booth: still needed – for most journalists, whiter than it is today. NUJ stalwarts Sadly, we lacked the business acumen Two girls in silk kimonos, both never mind the general public. (And such as Beulah Ainley, George Alagiah, to keep it going, but it was fun while it Beautiful, one a gazelle. not to mention members of Arjum Wajid and photographers Chi lasted and we learned a lot. Alas, what we have not got in the UK parliament.) Chan and David McCalla began their Mike Jempson is anarchy. We have the opposite Susi Arnott careers on the paper. Ian Cobain, Zelda Bristol – another Bullingdon Club member London

20 | theJournalist inbox

Why didn’t you vote? We urge anyone who struggles I was delighted to read that Christine at work because of migraine to Buckley had been reappointed as contact us. editor of The Journalist. I think she has Helen Balami twitter feed done an excellent job. The Migraine Trust Tweet us your feedback: @mschrisbuckley But an 11.2 percent turnout? Pretty disgraceful, folks. Media should recognise Graeme Giles the value of video games The Southern Star (@SouthernStarIRL) 09:44 AM · Dec 20, 2019 Life Member, Perth All too often, I see misreporting around Lovely letter about us in the current edition of the @NUJofficial‘s competitive video games (aka esports) #Journalist magazine, which circulates in both the UK and Ireland. Employers need to in mainstream publications or We couldn’t have said it better ourselves! ‘West Cork’s social media understand migraines broadcasts. for 130 years’! @local_ireland Migraines can have significant effects Esports is one of the fastest-growing #journalismmatters pic.twitter.com/a5Tml7RXkQ on people’s working lives. and exciting activities of the past Many journalists do shift work and decade and is now a $1 billion industry. Denis MacShane @DenisMacShane 1:13 PM · Dec 19, 2019 have stressful roles, working to tight However, I still see journalists and Congratulations @mschrisbuckley on handsome re-election as editor deadlines, both of which are common newsreaders covering this space of The Journalist – a key paper linking all British Isles journos together triggers for migraine. That is why it is with archaic views on video games crucial that the lack of awareness and as a waste of time, or something understanding of migraine in that is done by people with no life. workplaces is urgently tackled in the This could not be further from media industry. the truth. And now for something enhanced by audio-visuals or other While employers cannot always Actually, esports have a range of completely different... theatrical devices as appropriate. prevent a member of staff having a intrinsic benefits. These run from We’re academics (Nottingham Trent For some this will be an opportunity migraine, they can make a significant developing teamwork, leadership and University and City University) looking to hone their story-telling skills, develop difference to how it affects their work. communication skills to boosted for journalists to join in a new project their stage presence and public They should take it seriously as a reaction times and even increased to tell their ‘stories’ live on stage. speaking and to do a bit of networking, complex neurological condition and attendance levels in schools that have The idea is to present and explain but for others it will just be fun! make reasonable adjustments once esports clubs. stories to an audience who will be It’s also a chance to be involved in they become aware that they have an I implore anyone reading this who is asked not to pass them on before and shape this ground-breaking ‘live employee whose migraine is affecting planning to cover esports to do their they’re published. Similar events have journalism’ format, which we are their day-to-day activities. research and put any preconceived taken off in a few countries, inspired by studying as part of our academic work The Migraine Trust has produced ideas to one side. the US Pop-Up Magazine. to find ways of winning back audience Help at Work, which provides Reach out to the gaming community We’re hoping to put on a couple of trust and credibility in journalism. information about how to manage – they want mainstream coverage to News on Stage shows (which could If you’re interested please email migraine in the workplace. It can be be fair, accurate and interesting. each include five or six journalists) this [email protected] or glenda. downloaded from migrainetrust.org/ The gaming revolution is coming. Are spring in London and at a summer [email protected]. asking-for-support. you sure that you and your publication festival in Sussex. Thank you! Our advocacy service can be reached are ready for it? You’d be coached and supported to Catherine Adams via our website (migrainetrust.org) or Dominic Sacco make a 10-15 minute exclusive spoken and Dr Glenda Cooper by calling 020 3951 0150. Esports News UK version of your story, which could be Nottingham, London STEVE BELL THE OWNERS

theJournalist | 21 and finally...

Politicians must be spiky or spiked

Calm in the Commons makes poor news, says Chris Proctor

otebook-bearers from hoping he could be chums with The one answer he cannot come up the nationals file into everyone. To general irritation, he with is: ‘No.’ Quite frankly, no one in the Churchill dining appeared to be a thoroughly decent their right mind – and I exclude the US N room at the end of the bloke. Rumblings of discontent were president here – is going to stand up in corridor as you leave more evident than sounds of scribbling. front of a swarm of scribblers and say: the Strangers’ Bar in the Commons. It’s I mean, no one minds politicians being ‘No, I’m not bothered about bullying.’ lunchtime and everyone’s in search of a seemly in the privacy of their own He looks quite surprised that anyone bite; some are after food as well. The homes but they have some sort of duty could ask him this. “Look,” he says, occasion is one of the regular lunches to the media. ‘Nice bloke wants to be peering down at us from his trim and organised by the Parliamentary Press pleasant’ isn’t going to make anyone gangling height, sincerity seeping from Gallery. It always features a talk by popular with the news desk. every sinew, “I want everyone in this some Westminster personage. Someone asked about breastfeeding village to feel safe and happy at their “Who’s the speaker?” I ask. in the Chamber and hopes rose for at work.” Under his stewardship, bullying “The speaker.” least the suggestion of bigotry or would not be tolerated. “The bullying “Yes, who’s the speaker?.” prudishness. No, Lindsay said, he didn’t culture is over,” he said. “Yes, he’s the speaker.” mind. He didn’t think it should be All hell let loose. It seems the speaker’s the speaker. mandatory but, apart from that, was “So, you are admitting that bullying Lindsay Hoyle by name. I’ve often relaxed about the issue. ‘Relaxed’ is not has been rampant?” thought it’s an unusual moniker for a how the lobby likes to see its “What I was saying…” lad who went to school in Bolton. politicians. It prefers them aggressive, “If you’re saying you’re going to Maybe I’m more sensitive about these assertive or plain mad. It likes them stamp it out…” things than most. I remember the newsworthy. Hoyle was not helping. “I think I said …” sweaty-palmed nights before a new By some process undiscerned by “… it’s got to exist or you wouldn’t school term started in Liverpool, observers, the lobby decided to operate want to take measures against it.” knowing the next day I’d have to own the ‘extract quote’ manoeuvre. A By coincidence, David Leakey, the up to 35 junior hooligans that my cherubic figure put up his hand nicely. former Black Rod who the previous day middle name is ‘Heffernan’. (Readers will understand that the had submitted damning allegations The speaker had different problems, term ‘cherubic’ when applied to about Hoyle’s predecessor John Bercow, he tells us. His election as MP for parliamentary reporters deviates happened to be at the lunch and, Chorley in 1997 coincided with the widely from its use in an ecclesiastical No one minds surprisingly, was to be found standing arrival of a number of women MPs the context. In Westminster, it is best politicians being at the doorway, available for comment. press decided to dub ‘Blair’s babes’. This defined as ‘non-demonic’). No one bothers with dessert (there soubriquet is a terrible embarrassment Waxing innocence and integrity, the seemly in the wasn’t one) and scribes jostle to be first to our profession but it was particularly seraph enquired: ‘Will you be taking privacy of their on line with the story: that “Lindsay galling for Lindsay, who discovered measures against bullying, Mr Speaker?’ “ Hoyle declares end to Bercow era as he himself numbered among the group. The room was filled with the sound own homes but they vows to stamp out bullying in They had assumed ‘Lindsay’ to be a girl’s of clicking biros and opening notepads, Parliament” (Express), or “New Commons name. So did Emily’s List and various or at least the rapid production of have some sort of speaker has declared Parliament’s Labour women groups, who contacted pencils and smoothing of paper duty to the media bullying culture over, in a veiled swipe at him to ask if he’d care to affiliate. napkins. A pin dropping on the five-ply his predecessor” (Independent). His half-hour address was carpet would not have passed unheard. Smiles are exchanged all round. ‘Very disappointingly decent. He said he The speaker was being herded into useful lunch,’ it is agreed. wanted to be fair and impartial while the pen. “Who are we having for dinner?” 22 | theJournalist ” Moved house or Do you want to unplug and read your changed your magazine in print email address? rather than online?

Please let us know. Please let us know. You can update your membership You can change your member record on the website nuj.org.uk or preferences on the website nuj.org.uk email [email protected] or email [email protected]

Training Advertise in Advertiseclassified in The Journalist The rate for a classified ad is £25 scc (£25The x height (cm)Journalist x columns). To advertise contact Melanie Richards Can you trust 10% discount fo 2 or 3 issues. 4 or more issuesTo advertise will be 20%contact discount. Melanie Richards 01795 542417To advertise or pleaseemail: contact [email protected] Joe Brooks020 3026 on: 9239 or email: [email protected] Tel: 020 7657 1801 or email: [email protected] your sources? TAX CONSULTANTS H H TrainingThink tanks can be valuable sources of analysis and research. We are an established firm based in the City, specialisingSouth in Africahandling the taxation and Financial advice for hacks from But some are more open about who funds them than others. accountancy affairs of freelanceCape journalists. Town, Clients 3 bedroom,throughout the luxury UK. For further details contact: 020 7606 9787 a hack and qualified financial We shine a light on the most and the least transparent. log cabin. Sleeps 6-8. Own SOUTHWELL TYRRELL & CO adviser. Contact Nigel Bolitho pool and entertainment area in of BV Services, authorised exclusive Constantia. classified From £400pw. Advertiseand regulated by the Financial in The JournalistWho Funds You? promotes Magazine Production...Visit: www.iinkunilodge.co.zaour name says ConductServicesThe rate Authority. for a classified ad is £25 scc (£25 x height (cm) x fundingcolumns). transparency E-mail:To [email protected] advertise contact Melanie Richards it all whilst our [email protected] price covers it all 10% discount fo 2 or 3 issues. 4 or more issues will be 20%among discount. UK think tanks and 01795phone 01954 542417To 251521 advertise faxor 01954 pleaseemail: 252420 contact [email protected] Joe Brooks on: A professional magazine page layout and production solution with cost-effective H H political campaigns. We ask fixed page rates, designed just for you. All we need is your finalised copy, a Tel: 020 7657 1801 or email: [email protected] selection of your preferred images and advertisements (we can assist here too)… organisations to publish and we’ll do the rest. Simple? It should be. H their annual incomeH and A no-nonsense magazine production service from a TAX CONSULTANTS company whose name quite simply says it all… We are an established firm based in the City, specialisingSouth in Africahandling the taxation and Financial advicedeclare for hackstheir major from funders. www.magazineproduction.com or call 01273 467579. accountancy affairs of freelanceCape journalists. Town, Clients 3 bedroom,throughout the luxury UK. For further details contact: 020 7606 9787 a hack and qualified financial log cabin. Sleeps 6-8. Own SOUTHWELL TYRRELL & CO adviser. Contact Nigel Bolitho pool and entertainment area in of BV Services, authorised exclusive Constantia. WhoFundsYou.org Magazine Production Ad NUJ 0811.indd 1 04/08/2011 13:58 From £400pw. and regulated by the Financial Magazine Production...Visit: www.iinkunilodge.co.zaour name says ConductServices Authority. [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] it all whilst our fixed price covers it all phone 01954 251521 fax 01954 252420 A professional magazine page layout and production solution with cost-effective H H fixed page rates, designed just for you. All we need is your finalised copy, a wfy-nuj-quarter.indd 1 12/02/2015 14:10 selection of your preferred images and advertisements (we can assist here too)… and we’ll do the rest. Simple? It should be. A no-nonsense magazine production service from a company whose name quite simply says it all… www.magazineproduction.com or call 01273 467579.

Magazine Production Ad NUJ 0811.indd 1 04/08/2011 13:58

theJournalist | 31

theJournalist | 31

REASONSREASONS REASONS TOTO JOIN JOIN TO JOIN

HOLIDAY PAY HOLIDAY PAY ☞ ☞ ☞

ShouldEnding You the Be GettingGender Pay Paid Gap Holiday? Should You Be Getting Paid Holiday? ManyA UK Press freelances Gazette and analysis casuals showed are entitled that 91 to perholiday cent of Many UK freelances and casuals are entitled to holiday pay inUK law, media but ancompanies NUJ survey paid found men that more almost than women nine and pay in law, but an NUJ survey found that almost nine out of85 ten per did cent not of receive men got it. Arebetter you bonuses losing out? and Theit’s a similar out of ten did not receive it. Are you losing out? The NUJ haspicture been in successful Ireland. One in magazinewinning holiday group’s pay gap and was almost NUJ has been successful in winning holiday pay and backpay37 per for cent. many Opaque, of its members. unfair pay structures and unlawful backpay for many of its members. Couldsex that discrimination be you? If so, are the contributing NUJ can help. factors. Contact The NUJ Could that be you? If so, the NUJ can help. Contact [email protected] on transparent pay structures, progressive [email protected] work-life balance policies, better maternity and paternity deals and fair recruitment procedures. Are youAre keepingyou keeping good good company? company? Are you keeping good company?

Join Jointhe NUJ the NUJ today today at at Join the NUJ today at nuj.org.uk/joinnuj.org.uk/join www.nuj.org.ukwww.nuj.org.uk nuj.org.uk/join www.nuj.org.uk