Don't just moan about blatant bias, propaganda and fear mongering, in the mainstream press - indignantly complain. It wont revolutionise the media, but it might force 'newspapers' and others to explain themselves, admit willful errors and print humiliating withdrawals, or, it will show 'self regulation' and the corporate media's claim of 'independence' to be a farce, either way it is worth doing.

'Newspapers':

Although the press is 'self regulating', i.e. answerable to no-one, there are channels available such as the Press Complaints Commission (PCC). At the moment it mainly just protects individuals in the press spotlight, such as the Royals, but through it all 'newspapers' have laughingly signed up to Article 1 of PCC Code of Practice, which reads; "The Press must take care not to publish inaccurate, misleading or distorted information" and "A significant inaccuracy, misleading statement or distortion once recognised must be corrected, promptly and with due prominence, and - where appropriate - an apology published." If you read a blatant lie in the press complain, write to the PCC quoting that Article 1 of the code of practice has been broken.

(A good example is the recent front page from the Sun - "Old Trafford Terror Plot Foiled", after 10 Muslim people were arrested under 'Anti-Terrorism' laws in Manchester, that was enough for the Sun, no evidence was needed. The innocent detainees were released a few days later with no charges brought -There was no terrorist plot, there were no terrorists, there was no link with Man Utd at all - the Sun didn't even report it - it had had it's unfounded fear mongering lie of a headline).

If you complain the PCC is obliged to investigate and report upon its findings. It wont revolutionise the media, but it might force 'newspapers' to explain themselves, admit willful errors and print humiliating withdrawals, (especially effective if they're in relation to front page 'scoops'), or, it will show 'self regulation' to be a farce, either way it is worth doing. The PCC only received 3649 complaints in 2003 and it's figures are published and reported upon. If enough of us complain we could have a real impact, especially as the 'newspaper' industry lauds the PCC as the pillar of it's 'self regulation', claiming that it ensures of 'ethical reporting standards'. Just perhaps, through it, we can successfully Hold 'Em To Account!

Link to PCC Complaints Form

(Please note, the complaint needs to be in regard to a precise inaccuracy or distortion within a particular article. You need to quote Article 1 of the Code of Practice has been broken. Keep it outraged but polite, factual and to the point. Quote the precise newspaper, article and date).

TV & Radio:

With regard to TV & Radio the independent regulator is Ofcom.

Through Section 5 of the Ofcom Broadcasting Code all broadcasters (with the exception of the BBC - see below) are obliged, "To ensure that news, in whatever form, is reported with due accuracy and presented with due impartiality" and that there is "No undue prominence of views and opinions".

Do you feel a 'news' item has broken Section 5 of the Code? If so complete the Ofcom Complaints Form, or if you just wish to make your views known regarding a programme, complete the Ofcom 'Express Your Views' Form. You should have a response within 10 days. If your complaint is upheld, Ofcom can impose sanctions on the broadcaster, from a wrist slap, to fines or even withdrawing their licence.

With regard to the BBC, in accordance with the Communications Act 2003, the issues of impartiality and accuracy are the responsibility of the BBC Governors. If you wish to complain regarding a BBC programme you can do here. You should receive a response within 10 days and they are obliged to publicly report ALL complaints. If you unsatisfied with your response you can complain to the Editorial Complaints Unit, who are obliged to undertake an independent investigation into your complaint. These complaints are reported in detail quarterly. The BBC has also launched NewsWatch which covers BBC complaints and gives you the opportunity for general feedback.

Advertising:

The Advertising Industry is 'self regulated' by the Advertising Standards Authority. The ASA is intended to make sure all advertising meets the standards laid down in the Advertising Codes. In it's own words "the ASA works to keep advertising legal, decent, honest and truthful". If you have cause to complain regarding an advert submit your complaint here. You should receive a response within 5 days. Looking at their website it is unclear whether anything more than the number of complaints received is published, and looking at the state of advertising, ensuring honesty and truthfulness is not their forte. It is a weak body and offers poor accountability.

The only way to totally negate the power of the corporate media though, is to think for yourself, ignore them and encourage others to do the same. If Murdoch's circulation plummeted, do you think he would have the same influence over our 'democracy'? Be the media yourself, seek out real journalism for yourself, pass it on. Armed with the facts. Hold 'Em To Account!!!

Links to Real Journalism