Court Cases Media Comment
2021-07-01
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The question addresses the concern of media and public comments prejudicing ongoing legal proceedings.
What steps has he taken to ensure that court cases are not prejudiced by inappropriate (a) reporting by the media and (b) comment by the public?
In order to avoid prejudice to criminal proceedings, I may issue a media advisory notice to inform and ensure responsible media coverage. A campaign called #thinkbeforeyoupost has been launched to promote awareness of the risks of ill-judged social media posts.
▸
Assessment & feedback
The answer did not provide details on specific measures or policies against public comments prejudicing court cases.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
▸
Context
A High Court judge suggested treating offences by a blogger differently from those of the mainstream media in a recent Scottish case.
Given that most serious breaches have been carried out by the mainstream media, and considering their evolutionary history, does he agree that while bloggers should be held accountable, they are also entitled to the protections afforded to the rest of the mainstream media?
Everyone is equal under the law. The media, generally responsible and aware of reporting restrictions, face limitations on reporting active proceedings. Media advisory notices are issued where necessary. Bloggers, despite lack of training, are also accountable for their posts which can amount to a contempt of court and lead to imprisonment.
▸
Assessment & feedback
The answer did not directly address whether bloggers should be entitled to the same protections as mainstream media.
Response accuracy