Reform UK Bans Nottinghamshire Council Leader Newspaper Access

Here’s a‌ summary of the news article:

Nottinghamshire County Council Leader Bans Local⁢ Newspaper

Mick Barton, the Reform UK leader of Nottinghamshire ‍County council, has banned his councillors from ‍engaging with the Nottingham Post ⁣and its⁢ online arm, Nottinghamshire​ Live. This‍ includes ‍journalists from the BBC’s Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) who work with‍ the publication.

Reason for the Ban:

The ban stems from ‍a disagreement over a story the newspaper ‍ran regarding local government reorganisation. Barton claims the publication spreads “misinformation” and doesn’t uphold “responsibility and honesty” in its reporting.

Details of‍ the Ban:

the‌ council​ will⁣ cease sending press releases to the publication.
⁣Barton and his councillors will not grant interviews or invite⁢ reporters to council events.
reporters⁤ will still be allowed to attend public meetings.
‌ The ban will‌ be lifted only in⁣ emergency situations (flooding, school incidents, public safety, etc.).

Reactions:

Natalie Fahy,⁢ editor of Nottinghamshire⁢ Live, expressed “very concerned” about the “unprecedented ban.”
‍ Barton insists ‌the move isn’t about silencing journalism but about ensuring fair and accurate reporting.

Background:

Reform UK gained control of the⁣ council in May 2024, winning a majority of seats.Barton was ⁣elected as leader shortly after.