A newspaper publisher says journalists will welcome “constructive feedback” on their work from readers after a new online commenting system was introduced.

Reach plc has revealed further details about how the new system, which was announced on Friday, will work in practice.

HTFP previously reported how users wishing to comment on online stories will have to register via a verified email, Facebook or Google account, while artificial intelligence is also being introduced to help journalists moderate comments.

Reach-owned sites have now begun publishing pieces explaining how the new system will work.

New features include the introduction of a ‘follow’ button, which will allow readers to receive email notifications whenever someone comments on a particular story.

An explainer published on the Liverpool Echo’s site states: “In some instances, you will also be able to ask questions to members of staff and have them reply to you – again, as long as you do so fairly and respectfully.

“When we see a comment that we think makes a fantastic point, we’ll flag it as an editor’s pick which means everyone will see it first. Constructive feedback on Echo articles is also welcomed.”

A section headed ‘What type of comments break the rules?’ adds: “We won’t allow any comments using bad language or versions of. Adding a couple of asterisks or spaces between letters doesn’t mean it’s fine.

“Disagreeing with other commentators is ok, but not insulting them. Hate speech in any form breaks the rules too.

“Our new system should pick up spam comments before they see the light of day, but any spamming or trolling is out – for instance commenting on one team as a fan of another purely to wind people up. Commenting names that include bad language are out too.

“Additionally our reporters welcome constructive feedback on their work, but personal attacks or insults won’t be allowed.”