Journalists from The Guardian, The Spectator, Newsnight and Private Eye have been singled out for praise by academics working in the field of politics.
At the Political Studies Association’s annual awards this week, Guardian columnist Polly Toynbee was named Political Journalist of the Year. The judges said the standard of her journalism had “impressed all those who wish to see an articulate voice impress upon others the case for those who have little say. Her campaigning pieces in The Guardian, allied to her recent powerful and influential book, have stirred the conscience of many.”
The Spectator was named Political Publication of the Year and described as “a superb outlet for all those who like their political coverage to be vivid, challenging and occasionally partisan”.
The judges said: “The dynamism of the magazine reflects the editor and The Spectator has obtained the status of a ‘must-read’ for everyone connected with politics, not merely those who would locate themselves as right-ofcentre.”
Broadcast of the Year went to Newsnight for its Blair on Iraq special, shown in February. It was described as “political broadcasting at its best” with the Prime Minister “subject to direct and powerful questioning from members of the public”.
Private Eye was given the award for best political satire in print.
Other winners at the awards, which were hosted by James Naughtie from Radio 4’s Today programme, included Ken Livingstone (Politician of the Year), Robin Cook (Parliamentarian of the Year) and Theresa May (Opposition Politician of the Year).
By Dominic Ponsford
Email pged@pressgazette.co.uk to point out mistakes, provide story tips or send in a letter for publication on our "Letters Page" blog