The Duke and Duchess of Sussex End Cooperation with UK Tabloids
New Media Relations Policy
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have informed the UK’s tabloid press that they are ending all cooperation with them. The decision was made due to “distorted, false or invasive” stories, and the couple has refused to “offer themselves up as currency for an economy of click bait and distortion”.
The Letter
A representative of the couple wrote a letter to the editors of the Sun, Mirror, Mail, and Express titles and websites, stating that the pair had taken the step due to the “gravely concerning” way some media outlets operate. The letter emphasized that the couple will no longer engage with the publications, and will not provide any corroboration or confirmation of stories.
Concerns about Media
The letter expressed concern about the influence of some media outlets, which have printed “distorted, false or invasive” articles. The couple believes that this type of reporting has a real human cost, affecting every corner of society. They have watched people’s lives being pulled apart for no good reason, solely to boost advertising revenue.
New Policy
The couple’s new media relations policy will apply to the four newspapers, their Sunday editions, and associated websites. The policy is not about avoiding criticism, but rather about not engaging with outlets that print false or distorted information. The couple will continue to work with other media outlets and young, up-and-coming journalists to raise awareness of the issues and causes they care about.
Conclusion
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are committed to their new life in California and will no longer engage with the UK tabloids. They believe that a free press is essential to democracy, but also that journalism’s first obligation is to the truth. They will continue to work with media outlets that prioritize accuracy and fairness, and will not participate in an economy of click bait and distortion.
FAQs
Q: Why are the Duke and Duchess of Sussex ending their cooperation with the UK tabloids?
A: The couple has taken the step due to “distorted, false or invasive” stories, and refuses to “offer themselves up as currency for an economy of click bait and distortion”.
Q: What is the new media relations policy?
A: The policy will no longer engage with the publications, and will not provide any corroboration or confirmation of stories.
Q: Will the couple continue to work with other media outlets?
A: Yes, the couple will continue to work with other media outlets and young, up-and-coming journalists to raise awareness of the issues and causes they care about.
Q: Is this a blanket policy for all media?
A: No, this policy is specific to the UK tabloids that have printed “distorted, false or invasive” articles. The couple will continue to work with other media outlets that prioritize accuracy and fairness.
Image credit: PA Media