HC Deb 15 December 1978 vol 960 c586W
Mr. Lee

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will seek to make it an offence for journalists and others to attempt to secure copy, in return for payment or reward, from persons accused or convicted of serious crimes.

Mr. Merlyn Rees:

I do not consider that it is appropriate or practicable to deal with this matter by legislation. It it better to rely on voluntary restraint and the influence of the Press Council.