NUJ supports Chris Mullin as he defends the right to protect his sources
The union reaffirms its support for Chris Mullin as he contests an order in court, requiring him to reveal source material.
On Friday 25 February, Chris Mullin, journalist and former MP, appeared at the Old Bailey to challenge an order under the Terrorism Act brought against him by West Midlands Police. Supported by his NUJ legal team, Mr Mullin is contesting the order forcing him to reveal source material related to the 1985-1986 Birmingham pub bombings.
Chris Mullin said:
"There is very little I can say beyond thanking the NUJ for its support. Expressing gratitude for the many messages of support and saying that protection of sources is a fundamental principle for a journalist in a democracy, and that my legal team and I intend to uphold it."
Michelle Stanistreet, NUJ general secretary, said:
“The principle of protecting your source and keeping your word when confidentiality is pledged is a vital one for all journalists and lies at the heart of the NUJ’s Code of Conduct. The case brought by West Midlands Police risks compromising that core principle and undermining press freedom which is why the NUJ stands four-square behind Chris and is backing this case.”
Louis Charalambous, Simons Muirhead Burton LLP partner said:
"This is a crucially important case for protection of sources and investigative journalism. Chris Mullin stands firm and the union's support is a huge help to him."
In this month's NUJ Informed, Michelle Stanistreet details why the union is supporting Chris Mullin on his right to protect his source.
Read more from the NUJ: "Chris Mullin to contest order under Terrorism Act."
© Mark Thomas