By Martin Banks - 9th January 2008
Rules governing the way parliamentary news conferences are run are being sent to MEPs.
They set out strict guidelines on who should be allowed to speak at such events and the way they are organised.
The regulations have been drawn up by the assembly’s authorities in conjunction with the International Press Association.
They apply to news conferences at parliament's buildings in Brussels and Strasbourg.
The move follows concern in some quarters about the way press conferences in parliament are organised.
One journalist, who did not wish to be named, welcomed the rules, saying, “Far too often, press conferences in parliament descend into something more resembling political gatherings.
“They are supposed to be for journalists but, often as not, you have MEPs, their assistants, lobbyists and all and sundry in attendance. It can be a free for all.”
The nine-point set of rules state that “only journalists shall be authorised to ask questions.
“Others may attend but they may neither speak nor ask questions. Nor must they disturb the journalists’ work.”
Another rule says, “Those present must ensure that they do not express their approval or disapproval of the speakers or the points of view which they voice.
“A press conference presentation should not take up more than half of the total duration of the event so that journalists have a chance to ask questions.”
A parliament spokesperson said the rules will be displayed at the entrance to parliament’s press room and circulated to all MEPs in the coming days.
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