Another round: Is journalism broken? (with Robert Peston)
Aug 5, 2023
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British journalist Robert Peston discusses the challenges facing journalism, including the closure of local newspapers and lack of diversity. He shares his efforts to provide work experience for state school students and assesses the effectiveness of Westminster journalism. The conversation also touches on the influence of media on politicians, the importance of transparency, and the need for diversity in newsrooms.
Importance of expanding work experience opportunities for state school students to increase diversity in journalism.
Need for transparency, diversity, and impartiality in journalism to combat biases and ensure comprehensive media coverage.
Deep dives
Speakers for Schools: A Path to Social Mobility
Robert Peston, a journalist, discusses his initiative 'Speakers for Schools,' aiming to provide inspirational speakers and work experience opportunities to state school students. Started in 2009 due to unequal access to such experiences, the charity matches speakers with schools, offering a diverse range of opportunities and encouraging social mobility. Peston emphasizes the importance of creating equal chances for students regardless of their background, advocating for basic rights to work experience for young individuals.
Diversity in Journalism and Media Backgrounds
Peston reflects on the changing landscape of journalism, pointing out the shift towards professionalization and graduate entry, leading to a more middle-class dominated field. He acknowledges the lack of diversity in influential positions, highlighting the need for equal opportunities for individuals from all backgrounds. While progress has been made in terms of ethnic diversity, there is still a gap in representation of working-class individuals in journalism and media.
The Role of the Political Lobby and Transparency
Discussing the political lobby, Peston notes its evolution towards transparency and gender balance compared to the past. He delves into the potential challenges of groupthink within the lobby and the impact of personal relationships on reporting. Peston advocates for transparency in connections and backgrounds to maintain impartiality in journalism, stressing the importance of diverse viewpoints and backgrounds in media coverage.
British journalism is in a bleak place. It's estimated that around 300 local newspapers have ceased operating in the passed decade. And, despite various efforts to diversify newsrooms, they remain the domain of the middle classes.
During this conversation, Robert Peston tells Ed about his efforts to expand work experience placements for state school kids and his opinion on whether Westminster journalism is fit for purpose.