07.11.17
London councils accused of breaking publicity rules
Two London councils have been warned that court action could be brought against them if they do not reduce the frequency that they publish their internal newspapers.
Communities secretary, Sajid Javid, has issued directions to the London Boroughs of Hackney and Waltham Forest, who both publish their newspapers fortnightly, despite a code which advises otherwise.
The Publicity Code recommends that councils do not distribute a newspaper more than quarterly to protect local democracy, ensuring that local press do not face unfair competition.
The communities secretary has previously issued written notices to the councils regarding the matter.
Javid explained: “An independent free press is vital for local democracy and it’s important that we support them in holding local leaders to account.
“Councils shouldn’t undermine local democracy by publishing their own newspapers more often than quarterly.
“While the majority of councils abide by the Publicity Code, Hackney and Waltham Forest have ignored repeated requests to stop publishing their council newspapers so frequently.
“In the interests of local democracy, I will therefore use my powers to require them to do so.”
Following the issue of the directions, the councils have 14 days to comply or else may face court action.
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