Silence the unnamed source
One problem is the use of unnamed sources, making it difficult for readers to assess the likely accuracy of quotes.
A veteran journalist in the UK, Simon Hoggart, has pointed out that such unnamed sources must be treated with the greatest caution, since they do not want to be held accountable for the information they disseminate.
A second problem is so-called ‘trial by media’ whereby a person’s reputation may be ruined even after the courts find him or her innocent of the charges brought against them.
Newspapers have a responsibility not to represent someone as guilty before a verdict is delivered and to apologise suitably should they have wronged someone.
It may be argued that this is already the case.
True, but while the accusatory headline may occupy a prominent position on the front page, the apology will be found tucked away in one or two column inches deep inside the paper.
Even when libel damages are paid out, the person’s good name may still be tarnished.
Some may call me cynical for making this suggestion, but I suspect some papers may even factor in potential libel damages against the likely increased sales following a suitably ‘scandalous’ headline.
I propose two changes:
1. An end to the use of unnamed sources and spurious surveys. If someone is not willing to put a name to what they say, it should not appear in print. Indeed, I am expected to put my name and address to this letter in order to have it published.
2. Apologies should occupy the same position and use the same type size as the original headline. Thus, a front page headline that is subsequently proved incorrect should be followed up with a front page retraction using the same type size, even if it means the paper has to put its main news on page two.
This in itself may impose a financial penalty with a possible loss of sales. There would be the added benefit that the reliability or otherwise of the publication would become evident to its readership.
These measures should not be a matter for self-regulation, but enforced by legislation.
Nick Folley
36 Ardcarrig
Carrigaline
Co Cork
