Press regulation: Bell warns against what many might wish for

THE upcoming report on Press standards, by Lord Leveson, had the Sunday Herald columnist, Ian Bell, warning against what many people might wish for: a recommendation the Press being strictly regulated.

While deeply critical of the events which led to the establishment of the Leveson Inquiry, he also compares the Press with unregulated cyber-space, as a possible alternative.

The report is expected to be published on Thursday.

He ends by saying: “The [News of the World] is gone. Some hope the rest of the unloved press will follow. Leveson will no doubt help us on our way. But glance at the internet and social media. Ask what the difference is between free speech and a free-for-all.”