Government acknowledges 'vital role' of media

The News Media Association reported last week that, in an open letter to members of the HMCTS media working group, Minister for Courts and Legal Services Heidi Alexander MP said: “I want to acknowledge and thank you and your colleagues in the media for the vital role you have played in recent weeks in upholding the principles of open justice and transparency.

“It’s important – now more than ever – that justice is not only being done, but that the public sees and hears about justice being done; that crime leads to punishment and that the consequences of criminal activity will apply, in spite of any wider challenges we face across the justice system.

“I’m fully aware of the unfailing work that goes on behind the scenes of every news story, as court reporters follow cases through the system, attend and observe court hearings in person or online, request and verify details before independently and accurately reporting court business, in real time, often to very tight deadlines.”

NMA legal director Sayra Tekin said: “Acting as the eyes and ears of the public, the media plays a critical role in upholding the principles of open justice. In recent days and weeks, the role of local and national media in reporting on the disorder in communities across the UK and the subsequent response of the courts has been crucial to keeping the wider public informed. We appreciate the government’s recognition of this and look forward to working with the new government to ensure open justice continues to be protected.”