2. Media and Free Press in the UK

What is censorship?

The suppression of speech or information considered harmful, sensitive, or politically incorrect.

What is freedom of press?

The ability of media to publish information without government interference.

What is e-media?

Electronic forms of media like websites, blogs, and online news.

What is mass media?

Media that communicates information to a large audience at the same time.

What is traditional media?

Television, radio, newspapers, and magazines.

What is new media?

Internet-based platforms like social media, podcasts, and blogs.

What is Ofcom?

The UK’s independent regulator of communications, ensuring fairness and standards.

What was the Press Complaints Commission (PCC)?

An independent body that handled complaints about UK press content (replaced by IPSO).

What is the role of the media?

Informs the public, influences opinion, provides a platform for debate, and holds government accountable.

Give an example of media holding government accountable.

During COVID-19, UK press asked critical questions during daily briefings, promoting transparency.

How does free media support democracy?

Ensures citizens know about issues, exposes wrongdoing, and encourages trust and reform.

Give an example of media exposing wrongdoing.

The MPs Expenses Scandal (2009) revealed misuse of taxpayer money, leading to resignations and prosecutions.

What are press freedom limitations in the UK?

Mostly free; limited censorship exists in age ratings for films and video games.

What happens in countries with restricted media?

Reduced accountability and freedom of expression, e.g., China and North Korea.

What is the role of social media?

Allows rapid communication, public engagement, and highlighting issues or influencing government decisions.

What is a risk of social media?

The spread of misinformation that can mislead public opinion.

How is UK media regulated?

Ofcom ensures legal standards; IPSO enforces ethical press standards.

What was the Leveson Inquiry?

Investigated phone-hacking by journalists, notably News of the World, exposing illegal practices.

Who was Millie Dowler?

A murdered schoolgirl whose phone was hacked during police investigation, causing public outrage.

What happened to the Royal Family and celebrities?

Phones were hacked to gain private info for sensational stories.

What were Leveson Inquiry recommendations?

Newspapers remain self-regulated; a New Press Standards Body enforces privacy, accuracy, and ethics.

What was the impact of the Leveson Inquiry?

Stronger accountability, raised public awareness, stricter media protocols, and legal consequences for journalists.

Give an example of strengthened accountability.

Editors at News of the World resigned after phone-hacking scandals.

Give an example of raised public awareness.

Public questioned media practices after Millie Dowler’s phone was hacked.

Give an example of changes in media practices.

IPSO enforces rules on privacy, accuracy, and reporting ethics.

Give an example of real-life consequences.

Rebekah Brooks, former News of the World editor, faced trial for phone hacking.