A FIERY debate erupted today after it was suggested the National Union of Journalists (NUJ) should adopt a no platform policy on reporting the British National Party (BNP).
A composite of motions, moved by the NUJ National Executive Council (NEC), which aimed to advise journalists on reporting the BNP responsibly eventually passed.
No platform
But a number of members spoke in favour of adopting a no platform policy which would mean NUJ members would refuse to give any coverage to the BNP.
Two amendments to the original composite motion were forwarded but eventually fell after an hour long debate.
The first from the Press and PR branch of the NUJ called on the NEC to “fully support any journalist who refuses to work with members of the BNP” and support “black members who refuse to allow BNP members to use their publication or TV/radio channel as a platform.”
The second amendment from the South Yorkshire branch called on the BBC “to reverse its decision to invite BNP leader Nick Griffin on to Question Time.”
Split
Never again was shouted by members arguing for and against adopting a no platform policy.
One member of the NEC asking delegates to reject the amendments said: “We live in a democracy, it’s a price we pay, it’s a price worth paying.
“I would find it disheartening if my union denied freedom of speech.”
However David Peel of NUJ Norfolk branch who spoke to support of one of the amendments said: “I fought the National Front in 1979 and it breaks my heart that I’m still in this fight.
“I will refuse to work with the BNP.”
Four other motions regarding the union’s policy on the BNP carried: 101, 102, 104 and 106 (agenda paper).
