London Local Press Awards

The
Mayor of London, Ken Livingstone (pictured), has launched the first
London local press awards to recognise balanced and accurate coverage
of refugee and asylum issues.

Independent research commissioned
by the Mayor found evidence amongst the national press of unbalanced
and inaccurate coverage, which could cause fear and tension within
communities across London. It indicated that the local press was more
likely to paint an impartial picture of issues affecting local people.

Livingstone
said: “London is built on successive waves of immigration and diversity
is one of the city’s great strengths. However, negative media images of
refugees and asylum seekers contribute to making them among its most
vulnerable residents, facing insecurity, social exclusion and
hostility. The media has a responsibility to present a fair and
accurate picture of London and these awards aim to recognise those
local newspapers, which are acting in a more responsible way.”

The
deadline for entries is 28 June and the judging panel includes
representatives from the Network of Exiled Journalists and the NUJ.
More details can be obtained from the GLA via LLPA@london.gov.uk or 020
7983 4605. Livingstone will present the awards at a ceremony in City
Hall on 21 July.