Tony Hall To Address Press Freedom Issues

BBC director general Tony Hall will speak about the press freedom issues affecting UK media when he delivers the inaugural Satchwell Lecture, organised by the Society of Editors, at Stationers’ Hall on 8 October. 

In one of his first public appearances since the BBC’s announcement that it would not be appealing the judgment in the Cliff Richard case, Lord Hall’s speech will address the press freedom issues which Bob worked so tirelessly upon during his career.

The Society’s executive director Ian Murray said: “No one involved over the last few years in the battle to protect a free press and diverse media here in the UK can be in any doubt of Bob’s huge contribution to that cause.

“From Leveson to the creation of IPSO, from threats to Freedom of Information, to the countless other attempts to stifle free speech, Bob was always there in the fight. This is a chance not only to ensure his name remains at the forefront of that fight but enables on this first occasion the industry to say some small thanks to a man who worked tirelessly on its behalf.”

Bob stepped down from his role as the Society’s Executive director in March last year due to a life-changing illness. The Society has launched the annual lecture, which will raise funds for his ongoing care, in his honour.

The event has a small registration fee of £10. Places are limited. Tickets can be booked via Eventbrite here.