Media freedom alert issued following Just Stop Oil protest arrests in Hertfordshire
It comes after three journalists were detained while covering the protests
Last updated 18th Nov 2022
Two alerts for serious threats to media freedom have been issued in the UK.
It comes after journalists were arrested while covering the Just Stop Oil protests on the M25 in Hertfordshire last week.
The Council of Europe’s Safety of Journalists said national authorities have been notified after a reporter, documentary maker and photographer were detained for reporting on the action.
It also said the National Security Bill, which cleared the House of Commons after MPs gave it a third reading without a formal vote, has “chilling effects on media freedom”.
A “level two” threat alert was issued over the protest arrests, covering “physical assaults”,” acts of intimidation and harassment”, “threatening or severely abusive language towards media members” and “unwarranted seizure or damage to property or equipment”.
A “level one” threat level has been issued by the Council of Europe, meaning “the most severe and damaging violations of media freedom”.
It comes as both Rich Felgate - the photographer - and Tom Bowles said they are in the early stages of speaking to lawyers over seeking legal action against Hertfordshire Police.
They had been getting footage and pictures of Just Stop Oil on a footbridge over the M25 near Kings Langley when they were handcuffed.
The pair, both of whom say they have no affiliation with the group, had their equipment seized and were taken to a police station, despite efforts to show their press cards.
Mr Bowles, 47, from Hackney, east London, told the PA news agency he was held until 1.30am, hours after his wife and 14-year-old daughter were woken up as three police officers searched their home.
In a statement, Hertfordshire Police said:
"Chief Constable Charlie Hall recognises the concerns over the recent arrests of journalists who arrived at these locations and have been present with the protestors at the scenes.
"Additional measures are now in place to ensure that legitimate media are able to do their job.
"In addition, Mr Hall is today requesting an independent force to examine our approach to these arrests and to identify any learning we should take in managing these challenging situations."