A survey is asking editors how they work with the Press Complaints Commission.

The Society of Editors has sent out the questionnaire, which also asks how editors tell their staff what they need to know about the voluntary Code of Practice that journalists abide by.

The question sheet also asks how PCC workings and advice are incorporated into the everyday routines of newsrooms - including telling readers how they can complain if they need to.

Many newspapers promote the PCC for free on their pages, through adverts or information panels which explain its work.

Society director Bob Satchwell said it was an exercise that had become more pertinent with the progress of the Commons Media Select Committee into privacy and self-regulation.

He said: "Once we know what people are already doing in this regard, we can decide how we can support that work.

"Of the early results we have had, it's fairly clear that giving space over to information in the newspaper is not universal but most put adverts in free of charge and also carry information under their leader column."

The Society already produces a pocket-sized guide to the Code, and is distributing an updated version that covers new advice on the latest changes.

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