Tonight, the London Press Club stages a panel debate about the difficulties faced by journalists in seeking to exercise press freedom at a time of increased, and increasing, surveillance by the state.
The main speakers will be Liberty’s director Shami Chakrabati; the freedom of information campaigner, Heather Brooke, who played a leading role in revealing the MPs’ expenses scandal; and the London Evening Standard’s home affairs editor, Martin Bentham.
I am chairing the debate, entitled “Press freedom in a surveillance state”, which will take place at London’s Stationers’ Hall, from 6.30pm for a 6.45pm start. (Networking and drinks begin at 8.30pm).
The event, held in association with the Society of Editors, could not be more timely. As London Press Club’s chair, Doug Wills, observes: “Never has there been more passion from all sides about the conflicting demands of privacy, protecting sources and demands for full access for terrorism and crime investigators.”
One subject certain to come up will be journalistic concerns about the police’s use of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (Ripa).
Wills says that editors are also worried about the political pressure for watering down the freedom of information act.
London Press Club members can book a free space by emailing info@londonpressclub.co.uk. Non-members can book for £10 via Stationers.
More details on London Press Club site.
