In a shocking series of events, Declassified have had our access denied not once, not twice but on three occasions this month. These decisions are outrageous and in any free or fair society this would not have happened. Let me explain.
The first occasion was a major arms fair, the Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) trade show, back in early September. We have attended and reported from there twice before in 2021 and 2023 under Conservative governments but this time our registration was refused. We were given no reason for our registration being refused.
Secondly, we received confirmation from the Labour Party that we have been refused entry to their annual conference (taking place in Liverpool this weekend) for a second year in a row, again with no clear reason provided as to why.
Thirdly, in an egregious restriction on press access to Parliament, our application for a Parliamentary media pass has been blocked too. Documents released under the Freedom of Information Act have revealed absurd and worrying reasons for our refusal, including an internal email saying: “They [Declassified UK] are not specifically a politics organisation, as their main focus is around foreign affairs.” I am sure you would agree with us that foreign affairs is deeply political. You can read the full details of that here.
These decisions beg the questions — What is it they want to stop us investigating and therefore knowing and why is our presence unwelcome?
We cannot stand for this. This isn’t just a concern for us at Declassified and our ability to access the spaces we need to investigate and report unhindered. This is a worry for anyone who cares about freedom of the press to hold powerful people to account in our so-called democracy.
We have written an open letter asking for those responsible for press access to parliament to urgently review their decision and issue us with a press pass. It would be brilliant if you could sign this letter in support.
Read the letter and sign it here.
Our work is having an impact, and irrespective of the systemic barriers placed in our way we will continue with rigour and determination. We cannot thank you enough for your support.
Yours sincerely,
Laura
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