Coronavirus: NMA To Seek Confirmation Media Will Be Designated Essential Service

The News Media Association is to seek confirmation from the Cabinet Office that news media will be designated as an essential service in the event that restrictions are placed on movement because of coronavirus.   

The NMA will stress the fundamental role that news media has in informing the public during challenging events and the importance of news media journalists being able to move freely to report on developments.

The NMA said: “News media has a critical role to play in informing the public when national and global challenges such as the coronavirus arise. It is essential that journalists and news media outlets are given the appropriate designation so they can continue to do this important work effectively. 

“We intend to seek clarification from the Cabinet Office on this point.”