The Tory Party has fully dropped a plan to charge journalist for entry to its conference after an industry-wide campaign.

The Conservatives have scrapped the controversial “accreditation fee” which was widely criticised by organisations including the News Media Association, Society of Editors, News Media Coalition and Foreign Press Association.

The Tories announced a partial U-turn on the policy last month, when regional press journalists were made exempt from the fee.

However, it has now been revealed there will be no charge for any media attendance at the forthcoming event, which will be held in Manchester in October, with refunds being offered for those who have already paid.

In agreeing to scrap the fee, which had been set at £137 per application, the Tories have asked that journalists and media organisations are “mindful of the administrative burden of applying for places that are unlikely to be used”.

The party also warned that “no shows” – without good reason – may be charged a levy when applying for future conferences.

In a joint statement, the industry bodies who opposed the fee said: “Following dialogue between the Conservative Party and industry bodies, we welcome the decision to withdraw the media accreditation fee and refund those that have already paid.

“As recognised by the party, all party conferences provide a valuable opportunity for political parties to communicate their policies to the public and ahead of an anticipated general election year, the ability of the media to scrutinise and report freely from such events remains especially important and vital for democracy.

“In agreeing to scrap the fee, the party has asked that journalists and news organisations are mindful of the number of applications they submit to attend the conference.

“While it is understood that the news agenda often dictates last-minute changes, there remains a significant cost and time resource associated with accrediting applications – not least for the police.

“We are grateful to the party for listening to our concerns and acting accordingly.”

NMA chief executive Owen Meredith, pictured, added: “After months of campaigning and careful negotiation, the NMA greatly welcomes the decision made today by the Conservative Party to rescind their charges for media workers. I’m delighted we’ve been able to find a workable solution to avoid these charges.

“As a society that values democracy, it is crucial that party conferences are open for journalists to report on without any financial barrier and essential that they can fulfil their vital role in holding those in power to account and provide objective reporting on behalf of the public.

“Transparency and accessibility are vital components of a healthy democracy, and ensuring journalists can report freely at these events is a step in the right direction for press freedom.

“Importantly, I hope this move ensures this dangerous precedent is not exported around the world.”