Press now allowed to cover SNP hustings
The party has made a partial u-turn to open the contest for First Minister to the press, following pressure from the union, Society of Editors and broadcasters.
The Scottish National Party said broadcaster STV, and a print and radio journalist will be able to cover first hustings at Cumbernauld Theatre. It is understood they would be attending on a pooled basis, providing footage and content to other media organisations. The SNP had originally refused media access to the event.
John Toner, NUJ national organiser for Scotland, who had described the ban as a “shocking decision” said it was a positive step.
Dawn Alford, executive director of the Society of Editors said the default position should always have been in favour of openness and transparency: “It is essential that proper media access is permitted for all the upcoming hustings events to ensure proper scrutiny of the candidates for the benefit of the Scottish people.”
SNP hustings should be open to press, says NUJ