Media Law - Code of Conduct in brief

In this session we learned about the four different codes of conduct for journalists:

1. The NUJ Code of Conduct
2. The Ofcom Code of Conduct
3. The Editor's Code of Conduct
4. The BBC Code of Conduct

The codes are not legally binding, but if you agree to them then it is assumed that you will uphold them at all times.
The National Union of Journalists (NUJ) Code of Conduct

The NUJ code of conduct has fourteen codes:

1. Journalists must work to a high professional standard.
2. Defend the freedom of the press - work to eliminate censorship/suppression of the press.
3. Journalists must try to make reports fair and accurate.
4. Journalists must rectify any harmful inaccuracies.
5. Journalists must obtain photos/information by straightforward means.
6. Journalists must not report on private distress/grief.
7. Journalists must protect confidential sources.
8. Journalists must not accept bribes.
9. Journalists must not distort/suppress the truth because of advertising.
10. Journalists must only mention sex/age/race/religion if it is strictly relevant.
11. Journalists must not interview/photograph children without permission.
12. Journalists must not publish photographs which have been manipulated without identifying them as such.
13. Journalists must not take private advantage of information.
14. Journalists must not endorse by advertising any products.

The NUJ Code of Conduct are created by journalists for journalists. Today it is not a requirement for journalists to agree to the NUJ code of conduct, or even to be members of the NUJ. Previously though if a journalist was not a member of the NUJ then no one would ever hire them. Conversely, journalists who work for Murdoch publications are not allowed to be members of the NUJ, and if they are then they will be fired. Presumably this is because Murdoch wants journalists who will find or create stories by any means necessary, not only by straight forwards means (number 5

The Ofcom Code of Conduct applies to commercial television, for example Sky and ITV. The BBC Code of Conduct only applies for BBC establishments. It is taught at the BBC college of journalism and is also available online.

Journalists working for any Murdoch publication follow the Editor's Code of Conduct, which was established after Murdoch first broke down unions. This meant that there was no code of conduct for a while which resulted in unreliable and irresponsible journalism. Today, if you break the Editor's Code of Conduct then you will be sacked without any compensation.