From the NUJ website:
"A Press Card is designed to allow journalists access to places that may be limited to the public because the authorities have placed restrictions on an area or because there are commercial limitations such as at sports grounds, theatres or clubs. The card is designed to identify the holder as a journalist there to report an event. The card supports the principle of a free media in that it should allow them unfettered access to the event provided they are there as an observer planning to report the event and not a participant or activist"
The critical point is the last sentence - present as an observer or participant. There may be little to differentiate the two in terms of appearance and behaviour
The press (many, not all) have fallen far short of the standards expected to retain public trust. Reporting of events is frequently skewed to meet preconceived conclusions. It is understandable that the police first remove them from the scene, and then properly confirm their credentials and intentions.
Last edited by: Terry on Thu 24 Nov 22 at 18:14
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