Essential Public Affairs for Journalists is an invaluable guide for journalism students and those already in the industry. It introduces readers to the constitutional framework and the governing institutions of the UK; covers the NHS, the Treasury, industry, utilities, social welfare, and home affairs; explores Britain's role in the EU and the wider world of international relations; before turning to focus on local government issues which introduce a wealth of subjects for aspiring and practicing journalists. The third edition has been updated with a full explanation of the large-scale programmes of reforms introduced by the coalition since the 2010 election, and includes up-to-date and relevant news stories and issues. It provides clear and engaging explanations of major recent and ongoing political events including the Libor-fixing scandal, eurozone sovereign debt crisis, the 2012 Budget, and the background to the setting up of the Leveson Inquiry, and includes new sections focusing on key topical issues and debates related to particular policy areas. A fully revised glossary includes previously specialist terms that have entered the public discourse.
The contents have been developed to ensure the best possible fit with the NCTJ essential public affairs syllabus, and there is clearly signposted advice on the practicalities of reporting. The text is supported by an Online Resource Centre: Online Resource Centre - Regular updates - new developments in central and local government are succinctly summarised so that the book is always up-to-date - News feeds - links to real life articles from different news sites via RSS - Audio podcasts on reporting public affairs in practice - Tables - Web links