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Press regulator marks first full year in operation

IPSO_logo_newThe press regulator has highlighted a new poll showing “strong public support” for its work as its marked its first 12 months in operation.

Since its launch a year ago, the Independent Press Standards Organisation has taken forward 463 complaints made against its members.

A total of 48 complaints have been upheld by IPSO’s Complaints Committee since its foundation, while 169 were dismissed.

A further 48 were mediated to a successful solution by IPSO, while 198 were resolved directly between complainant and publisher before being adjudicated upon.

IPSO claims the results of a YouGov poll, released to coincide with the anniversary, show “strong support” for its operation.

Of more than 2,000 people surveyed, 86pc agreed any press regulator should cover the vast majority of UK titles, 80pc agreed it should support those who have been mistreated based on a clear set of rules agreed by the media and 81pc agreed it should have the power to order a front page correction.

Matt Tee, IPSO chief executive, said: “IPSO’s vision is for a trusted, thriving, free and responsible press, reinforced by independent, effective regulation.

“Having been in operation for a year, it is clear that the general public share that vision. I am proud of what we have achieved and the fact that we have carried out our work free from control or interference by the press, parliament, interest groups or individuals.

“We have made a number of high profile, significant rulings in our first year of operation and I am proud of the work that my staff have undertaken in providing redress for members of the public.

“These are not celebrities or politicians but people who have complained to us and have been supported by IPSO because of our expertise and effectiveness. We are the only regulator in operation and we are getting on with our work.”

Most regional publishers opted to join the new regulator, which is designed to be independent of government, after the PRess Complaints Commission closed its doors last September.

The regulator decided not to seek ‘approved regulator’ status under the government’s Royal Charter, following the Leveson Inquiry, which could theoretically leave its signatories open to “exemplary damages” in libel actions.

Matt added: “Our first 12 months have been about ensuring that the organisation is set up properly and handles complaints effectively, and it is no surprise that public awareness is increasing slowly.

“Our own qualitative research shows us that the more people know about us and use us, the more positive they are about our first year. We go into year two with a very positive foundation.”

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  • September 8, 2015 at 1:38 pm
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    This is excellent news. With a bit of luck we’ll hear no more of this tiresome Royal Charter/Leveson nonsense.

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