Nigel Farage has announced his intention to discuss with a Reform UK council leader the recent decision to restrict access for reporters from a local news outlet.
Earlier this week, Nottinghamshire County Council informed the BBC that Councillor Mick Barton had issued an immediate ban, preventing the Nottingham Post and its online platform, Nottinghamshire Live, from engaging with him and other councillors.
The directive followed a disagreement concerning a published article about local government restructuring, although Mr. Barton later clarified that the ban was specific to him.
Mr. Farage, the national figurehead of Reform UK, has stated he will address the controversy.
Currently in Washington, D.C., Mr. Farage addressed Congress on Wednesday regarding free speech issues in the UK.
Following his address, the BBC inquired about Mr. Barton’s decision to bar Nottinghamshire Live reporters.
“I am unaware of the specifics. I intend to meet with him [Barton] at the Reform UK conference this Friday to discuss the matter,” Mr. Farage stated.
When asked about his stance on the ban, Mr. Farage commented: “He evidently views them as acting in bad faith, but I believe I have a demonstrated history of resolving such conflicts.”
When questioned whether Mr. Barton was “in trouble”, Mr. Farage responded: “No, I am adept at conflict resolution, and I have encountered similar situations before.”
“Having been involved in politics for three decades, I have witnessed these disputes and believe a resolution is necessary.”
He did not provide a response when asked if the county council ban would be rescinded.
Mr. Barton previously stated, “We do not have an issue; I am acting professionally, and I hope the Nottingham Post will do the same.”
“The ban remains in effect until an apology is issued. They should contact me directly.”
He further noted that he had “never prevented” his councillors from communicating with journalists at the publication.
The ban, which also included BBC-funded journalists associated with the title through the Local Democracy Reporting Service, has drawn criticism from Nottinghamshire Live editor Natalie Fahy.
Ms. Fahy attempted to present Mr. Barton with a copy of the Nottingham Post at the commencement of a county council meeting on Tuesday, which he declined.
Speaking to the BBC on Wednesday, Ms. Fahy noted that the dispute had “escalated significantly”.
“I am pleased that this issue is receiving attention, as it is of significant importance,” she stated.
“Many national journalists are concerned about the potential for similar restrictions with Reform.”
“I aim to return to the core issue: resolving this amicably to resume our work, including investigating the allocation of council tax funds.”
“Mr. Barton must acknowledge the vital role of the local press in holding councils accountable.”
According to the Post, an article by its agenda editor, Oliver Pridmore, prompted the ban.
The article – concerning ongoing discussions about local government reorganization – included an assertion that two Reform UK councillors stated at a public forum that they risked suspension from their county council group if they did not support Mr. Barton’s preferred model.
Mr. Pridmore, who attended the meeting, later commented: “We have no reason to apologize and stand by our reporting.”
“Our coverage is consistent with that of any council within our region.”
A petition initiated by the publication, titled “Reform: Stop hiding from press scrutiny,” has garnered over 26,000 signatures.
Mr. Barton has been contacted for comment.
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