Lord Goldsmith calls for clarity on what media may report

The Attorney General last week called for greater clarity in the laws governing what the media may report and for a balance to be struck between freedom of the press and competing public interests.Speaking at a conference in London, Lord Goldsmith QC said: 'Given the potential serious consequences both for the media organisation and for the individual journalist who commits contempt, it is essential that they, and those advising them, should be able to judge with certainty the legality of any particular course of action.'While defending freedom of speech, Lord Goldsmith said the fair administration of justice demanded some limits.

'Trial by media benefits no one.

I will continue to act...

to ensure the courts can administer justice without hindrance.'John Battle, ITN's head of compliance, told the conference - run by Weber Shandwick - that the media is over-regulated.

'While European law should benefit the media due to its wide remit on freedom of expression, I expect statutory provisions will increase individuals' privacy rights.'Andrew Towler