§ Mr. AllenTo ask the Prime Minister what is his policy on the freedom of the press; and what steps have been taken to implement his policy since 1979.
§ The Prime MinisterThe Government are committed to safeguarding the freedom of the press. They consider this is best secured by responsible journalism and effective self-regulation. In pursuit of this policy the Government have supported the recommendations of the Calcutt committee for a non-statutory Press Complaints Commission. We are committed to reviewing the effectiveness of the new arrangements later this year.