Professional and transparent relationships with the media are an essential part of modern policing. We police by consent, and in order to do this effectively we have to show that we are legitimate and accountable. We read Roy Greenslade’s article (Police at war with press as they access phone records, 1 December) with disappointment.
Speaking at recent conferences organised by the Society of Editors and the Association of Police Communicators, Chief Constable Colette Paul stressed the importance of the police and media working together to build and strengthen healthy relationships.
Whether you agree with them or not, the Leveson and Filkin inquiries both found evidence of inappropriate relationships that were not in the public interest. Something had to change.
Guidance developed by the College of Policing following the Leveson report, in consultation with police communicators, journalists and police officers, strongly encourages officers to engage with the media. It also makes it clear that police must do so in a way that is capable of withstanding professional and public scrutiny. The guidance states that officers and staff should be “open, honest and approachable”.
Police use of their power to interrogate journalists’ mobile phone data as part of investigations has concerned journalists; we are working with relevant inquiries to look into this issue.
We believe there is a responsibility on both the police and the media to work hard to regain a level of trust and redevelop our relationship based on ethical practice and integrity. It is in everybody’s interest for us to do so; particularly the public.
Chief Constable Colette Paul
National policing lead for media and communications
Amanda Coleman
Chair of the Association of Police Communicators
