Dear Sir,
It is the duty of any responsible newspaper editor to reflect the views of the community he/she serves whether those views offend the powers-that-be or individuals who believe they know better than anyone else. An editor does not have to agree or disagree with opinions voiced by readers of his/her publication – merely to operate within the laws of the land and, morally, to offer a right of reply to individuals or groups who feel that any published criticism is unfair. It would be a very sad day for the people of this country if newspaper editors were prevented from publishing material which might offend the great and the good.
Yes, a good journalist should check the facts – but that does not mean the opinions of readers or allegations by individuals or groups should be published only when they are officially confirmed. Should editors have refrained from reporting the oftexpressed safety fears of the tenants of the Grenfell Tower or from questioning why the building burned so rapidly? Definitely not!
It’s essential that a free press, a cornerstone of our democracy, gives a voice to those who do not have the clout available to individuals, companies, groups and governments who would prefer not to be seen in a poor light even when the issues involve matters as seemingly trivial as a supermarket parking ‘ticket’. To the people concerned, they are important matters and should be treated as such – not least by their local newspaper. Syd, keep up the good work!
Ron Eyley
Editor: Ron Eyley is a multiaward-winning journalist who has been honoured on several occasions for his campaigning work on behalf of individuals and community groups.
