Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice defended the party after a council leader appeared to bar journalists from Nottinghamshire Live, stating the party supports scrutiny but draws the line when reporters “act as activists”. He emphasised that Reform UK councillors generally engage with the media and that freedom of speech remains a priority for the party. Mick Barton, leader of Nottinghamshire County Council for Reform UK, clarified that the alleged ban applied only to him personally, though the council would still not issue press releases to Nottinghamshire Live. He insisted that he never prevented other councillors from speaking to journalists, saying: “I’m the leader, I don’t control their lives.” Barton also stated that the ban would remain until the newspaper apologised and contacted him directly.
++ Pamela Anderson embraces joyful style with jewellery
The controversy prompted criticism from the Liberal Democrats, who described the council as a “bad Vance tribute band” and demanded Nigel Farage expel Mr Barton. They also called on the Culture, Media and Sport Committee to launch an inquiry and summon Barton to give evidence to Parliament. MPs and party spokespeople warned that the refusal to engage with journalists undermines accountability and transparency in local government. Journalists’ unions and editors echoed these concerns. Chris Morley of the National Union of Journalists said barring reporters from interviewing key councillors risks creating a “vacuum of democracy.” Natalie Fahy, editor of Nottinghamshire Live, added that Reform UK’s actions contradicted its stated commitment to honesty, transparency, and free speech. She warned that such boycotts threaten not just press freedom but the democratic process itself.
++ JK Rowling critiques Nicola Sturgeon’s memoir as ‘Trumpian’
This incident has reignited broader debate in the UK about the responsibilities of elected officials to maintain open communication with the media. While Reform UK insists it remains professional and responsive to legitimate media scrutiny, critics argue that selective engagement and demands for apologies from journalists set a troubling precedent for press freedom. The situation remains under scrutiny, with calls for greater parliamentary oversight and potential disciplinary action for councillors who limit media access. Meanwhile, the council has yet to provide a full explanation regarding the ongoing restrictions on Nottinghamshire Live, keeping the controversy unresolved.
