It has become one of the most futile jobs in journalism, trying to get a quote out of Newsquest.
A newspaper publisher not talking to the press about their own industrial disputes while filling their papers with stories of strikes at other companies always looks bad.
But this is the regular response from Newsquest, and unlikely to change in the face of looming strike action at many of its centres across the UK.
Journalism.co.uk: Newsquest has not responded to requests for comment.
HoldtheFrontPage: No-one from Newsquest has yet responded to requests for a comment on the stoppages.
HoldtheFrontPage: Newsquest chief executive Paul Davidson was not available for comment.
Press Gazette editor Dominic Ponsford on asking Newsquest to respond to questions about the ending of its final salary pension scheme: "Over the last two days, Press Gazette has attempted to put questions to chief executive Paul Davidson - only to be told that he is not available and that no-one else can deal with our enquiries."
It may be frustrating for the journalists concerned, Jon, but attempting to obtain balancing quotes from a company mentioned in a story can never be described as futile. It is simply called being professional.
ReplyDeleteDear anonymous,
ReplyDeleteI just think newspaper publishers of all people should comment to the press. But I take your point and thanks for your comment.