Independent Producer Handbook

Main Navigation:

1. Introduction
2. Channel 4's Compliance Procedures
3. Five's Compliance Procedures
4. OFCOM Broadcasting Code
5. Media Law
6. Programming Checklists
7. Channel 4 Appendices
8. Five Appendices

• Channel 4
• Five

4G Elections : Key Points

• The reporting of elections and referendums must be duly impartial and facts must not be misrepresented.
• Due weight must be given to coverage of the major parties and any other parties or independent candidates with significant views or opinions during the election period.
• When the election period begins will depend on the exact nature of the election but invariably ends with the close of the poll.
• On polling day, discussion and analysis of election issues must finish when polling stations open.
• From the start of the election period, candidates in UK elections must not act as presenters or interviewers unless the programme is clearly non-political in nature and the appearance was arranged before the election period, in which case it may go ahead.
• From the start of the election period, if a candidate appears in a report about his/ her constituency or electoral area, all other candidates should be offered the opportunity to take part. Constituency reports should also contain a list of all candidates standing in that constituency.
• After an election has been called, politicians must not be allowed to make constituency points in any type of programme where no other candidate will have a similar opportunity.