The Editors’ Code of Practice Committee is to launch a comprehensive reappraisal of the Code next month.

The development is the first of a series of annual ‘health checks’ announced last year by Press Complaints Commission chairman Sir Christopher Meyer.

The aim of the project is to ensure the Code remains valid in the face of changing circumstances.

A handbook is to be produced to support the Code, both explaining the reasoning behind the rules and drawing on the important Press Complaints Commission case law which has been generated by it.

The Code committee is inviting suggestions from the industry and the public on how the guidelines might be improved – or simplified.

At the same time, the committee would appreciate any thoughts on particular areas of the Code where guidance in the handbook might be especially welcome.

Code committee chairman Les Hinton said: “This is the biggest single re-examination of the Code since the post-Diana review in 1997.

“We believe the Code has performed very well over those years, but it is important that it should be constantly reviewed to maintain its effectiveness in the face of constantly changing challenges.

“We urge both the industry and the public to join us in this exercise. It is the industry’s code, but it is there to serve the public.

“All who believe in a robust and independent press have a mutual interest in its ultimate effectiveness and success.”

Suggestions on changes should be sent to The Secretary, Editors’ Code of Practice Committee, PO Box 235, Stonehouse GL10 3UF, or via e-mail to: [email protected].

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