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vitty · 25-10-2005, 21:27

I have discovered why journalists have difficulties scrutinising council officers.

At least one publication has a policy of ensuring all reporters make any council query, or ask for any council comment via one press officer.

They are not allowed to contact council officers directly for comments.

The press officer deals with queries by asking porfolio holders (elected councillors, who speak in an expenses-only role, rather than a full-time job).

She would only ask questions of council workers if it is a technical query i.e. something you are not likely to scrutinise them on.

25-10-2005, 21:27	#1
vitty Member Join Date: Oct 2005 Posts: 92 Liked: 0 times Rep Power: 0	Hyndburn Council I have discovered why journalists have difficulties scrutinising council officers. At least one publication has a policy of ensuring all reporters make any council query, or ask for any council comment via one press officer. They are not allowed to contact council officers directly for comments. The press officer deals with queries by asking porfolio holders (elected councillors, who speak in an expenses-only role, rather than a full-time job). She would only ask questions of council workers if it is a technical query i.e. something you are not likely to scrutinise them on.