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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Pol Allingham

Reform called ‘bad JD Vance tribute band’ over journalist ban

  • Reform UK's Nottinghamshire County Council leader, Mick Barton, initially appeared to ban councillors from speaking to local newspaper Nottinghamshire Live.
  • Barton later clarified that the ban only applied to him, not other councillors, but maintained he would not speak to the publication and press releases would be withheld until they apologise.
  • Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice defended the stance, suggesting that if reporters "act as activists," the party is not obliged to engage with them.
  • The Liberal Democrats condemned the council's actions, likening them to "bad JD Vance tribute band" behaviour and calling for Nigel Farage to expel Barton and a parliamentary inquiry.
  • Journalists, including the National Union of Journalists and Nottinghamshire Live's editor, criticised the ban, warning it undermines democracy and transparency.

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