News International and the death of ethics in journalism

Fresh allegations that private investigators paid by the News of the World hacked into the phones of families of victims of the 7/7 bombings as well as relatives of the girls killed in the Soham murders have plunged British journalism deeper into crisis.

The phone hacking scandal escalated on Monday when The Guardian reported the phone of murdered teenager Milly Dowler had been hacked and some of her messages deleted by an investigator hired by the News of the World while she was still missing.

Now, the Metropolitan Police have contacted the families of Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman, who were murdered by Ian Huntley in Soham in 2002, the same year as Milly Dowler, to say their phones might also have been accessed by the tabloid newspaper.

The House of Commons was due to discuss the developments in an emergency debate today (Wednesday) as a campaign for a public inquiry is launched in the House of Lords.

“What has happened is News International has built up a surveillance system that is more potent than anything the police have available. I’m very distressed by what’s happened, it’s appalling. It’s even worse that it has taken since 2002 to come to light,” says Duncan Williams, chairman of Independent News Ltd, the regional newspaper and magazine publishing company which operates a positive news editorial policy.

“Something has gone wrong and people are actually appalled by the latest allegations. It’s an outrageous abuse of the privilege of working in the media.”

In an exclusive interview with Seeker News’ online video channel, Mr Williams highlighted the serious implications for British journalism.

“The media today is going through huge changes, but this kind of activity is actually detrimental to freedom of speech. There’s nothing wrong in investigative journalists unearthing valid stories, without that we’d be an even more censored society, but it’s how that story is treated and relayed to the reader, the citizen or the viewer. Too often the story is scurilous or gossip and it’s hard to claim interest.”

Police have reportedly widened their investigation to include every high profile murder of a child since 2001.

David Cameron’s former director of communications Andy Coulson resigned earlier this year amid allegations that phone hacking was rife at the News of the World during his time as editor. His predecessor, Rebekah Brooks, who was editor during the Soham murders and Milly Dowler cases has said it was “inconceivable” she knew Milly Dowler’s phone was hacked and has refused to step down.

“Ford has already pulled its advertising from the News of the World and other companies like Halifax, Orange, nPower and T-Mobile are reviewing their position, this is having a major commercial effect on News International,” says Seeker MD Steve Cook.

“Newspapers need quality journalism, but they also need the support of advertisers and if they’re losing major clients then maybe it’s about time our newspapers had a close look at how they operate. When the Washington Post journalists Woodward and Bernstein broke the Watergate scandal they were acting in the public interest, ultimately protecting American democracy from a President who was lying.

“What possible comparable public interest is there in hacking the phones of murder victims and their families?”


Reprinted from the Business Page of SEEKER NEWS, 2011 (c) copyright.
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View the full length interview online. Photography by Steve Cook.

THE WEEKLY SPORT

www.weeklysport.co.uk

Vision Talk -

VISION TALK -

a report from the Alpha International Conference by Duncan Williams.

Nicky Gumbel was in engaging form at the Alpha International Conference, held in London at Holy Trinity Brompton from the 6th to 10th of June.

This was the first time I had heard the evangelical reverend speak in person; and was immediately impressed by a gift for simple delivery coupled with a powerful message.

Nicky's welcome to the many Catholics who had attend end the Conference for the first time was heartfelt, as was his introduction to his Vision Talk that openly acknowledged the benefits Christianity had gained from last year's Papal visit to the UK.

Through focus upon a reading from Isaiah 61:4; The Vision Talk went on to encourage those of us working in the media to inspire and unite and rebuild the communities, people and religions of the world. Using our media skills to build a bridge of communication towards a better understanding and peace.

Media is a message bearer, and the minds and spiritual vision of thousands can be enhanced by taking active responsibility for its appropriate use.

I was reminded that we are in a most privileged position to encourage transformation.


"They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastate; they will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations" - Isaiah 61:4

Why Positive News Is Good For Us All

Why Positive News Is Good For Us All

Independent News Ltd. buys previously loss making newspapers and turns them into profit making entities that improve communications with local communities.

This is all done with the power of positive news. Positive news sells. Companies would much rather have their product or service advertised alongside an uplifting article that puts the reader in a good mood than an article about doom and gloom.

Positive Stories

What kind of stories do you like to read in the news?

Stories about success and celebration? Or stories about tragedy and the misfortune of others?

Most people would surely prefer to read uplifting stories that are well written and that aim to educate and inspire.

But unfortunately, when you take a look at your daily newspaper each morning, you may notice that the main headlines all focus on negativity.

Nowadays, column inches seem to be packed full of the woes of celebrities, the failures of politicians, the depressing overview of the economic climate. Even worse, these stories of gloom are often reported with an amount of glee on behalf of the journalist. The articles are often poorly written and do not educate nor inspire positive change in the life of the reader or society in general.

But wouldn’t it be nice to be greeted with an uplifting story about achievement, about something to celebrate, about something optimistic to get you in a good mood as you take on the day?

This is exactly what Duncan Williams, a Director on the board of Independent News Ltd., aims to achieve. He really does believe in the power of a good story.

“A good story does as it says on the tin; It reports a truthful, inspiring message. Maybe sheds a little light on some gloom... or draws attention to somebody or something worthwhile. The story's power lies in the fact that through its reporting it seeks to encourages more of the same” said Williams.

Improving Society With Positive Media

Duncan Williams hopes to increase the well-being of society with positive media.

“Marginalised elements of society often find it hard to access or express views in the mainstream media. Broadly speaking there is a trade in sensationalism and death. A tragic killing gets a mass of column inches and airtime, whereas the celebration of a human life gets far less. A birthday of a 100 year old citizen deserves as much, if not more attention, than the gleeful reporting of yet more doom and gloom. Coverage should always aim to be personal and real. Profiles of people should aim to help readers identify and feel a part of the story rather than apart from it. Ten years of revised media attitudes could have a remarkably beneficial effect upon society.”

A good story does not necessarily have to be an uplifting story of celebration. A tragic story can also be a good story.

In the reporting of a tragic story the reader demands that there be a point and a purpose to the way the story is told. From a tragedy people can still learn something that will help them in life. A tragedy often brings out the best in people and highlights the inner strength of human beings, with communities pulling together during times of adversity.

Whether it be about a tragedy or a success, a good story is always about the celebration of human life.

“It's human nature to want a good motive to override a bad one; it's what best assists group survival” states Williams.

Good Stories Sell

A good story is also advantageous from a business perspective. Good stories sell.

With Independent News Ltd., Duncan Williams has found a winning business formula of purchasing previously loss making regional newspapers and fast tracking them into profit. By doing this he has built up a portfolio of titles launched specifically at improving communication within local communities.

Independent News Ltd. uses what is known as value advertising to turn the newspapers into profitable entities.

The concept of value advertising is to increase the number of positive and uplifting stories in newspapers to make it more appealing for companies to want to purchase advertising space alongside such articles.

Duncan Williams believes that advertisers would much rather have an ad for their product displayed next to a positive story than alongside a story full of gloom and negativity. An uplifting story will shed the product in a more positive light. The reader will also be in a more positive mood as a result of the story and thus more receptive to advertisements on the page.

“If you were a newspaper advertiser would you want to promote your product or service next to an article about something dark and negative or positive and uplifting? Positive wins through.” he said.

Creating A More Positive Society

Independent News Ltd. is about more than just profiting from uplifting stories. Duncan Williams believes that by offering more positive media, we can build a more positive society.

“When all focus is placed relentlessly upon the negative, true vision, faith and hope all get eroded. A new pair of glasses can remind people that the world can still be a very beautiful place even in the most difficult of times. Modern media can be that powerful.” he states.

Duncan Williams wants to see more stories about the celebration of human life. Stories that help readers identify and feel part of the story rather than apart from it. He believes that ten years of revised media attitudes could have a remarkably beneficial effect upon society.

The Future Of Positive Media

As Independent News Ltd. continue to turn around the fortunes of magazines and newspapers, the amount of quality content in the media is only going to increase.

In 10 years’ time you may well get to take a look at your morning newspaper and read a good story that not only informs you, but educates you, and inspires you, and enriches your life. Wouldn’t that make a nice change?

Thousands Turn Out To Welcome Pope In London

Thousands of people have turned out in London to welcome the Pontiff as he continues his Papal tour of the UK with a series of public events in the capital.

The west London suburb of Strawberry Hill near Twickenham has been turned into a riot of colour as schoolchildren and members of the clergy descend on the area.

But the huge security operation surrounding the visit has led to unusual scenes outside a college where Pope Benedict XVI will address thousands of children.

Streams of bemused nuns waited in long queues to go through security scanners at St Mary's University College.

Their veils were inspected and rosary beads removed from handbags as they negotiated security.

One monk looked on incredulously as his crucifix was inspected and his habit frisked by police.

The Pope began the second day of his official Papal Visit with a private mass in Wimbledon after flying into London last night.

He then travelled to St Mary's University College, where he performed a special service for young people in an event to celebrate Catholic education.

Protests have also been planned to coincide with the Pope's visit to south west London, with humanist groups planning to demonstrate outside the college.

Among those gathered, some held banners reading "Holy Joe Ratzinger" and "From Hitler Youth to Papacy".

Later the Pontiff will head to central London, where he will address the Houses of Parliament and meet the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams.

In the evening Pope Benedict will attend Evensong at Westminster Abbey.

Yesterday, his Holiness was greeted by an estimated 125,000 well-wishers in Edinburgh who lined the streets for a glimpse of the head of the Catholic Church.

Shortly after his arrival in the UK, the Pontiff gave a speech in which he said the UK remained "a key figure politically and economically on the international stage".

"May it always maintain its respect for those traditional values and cultural expressions that more aggressive forms of secularism no longer value or even tolerate," he said.

"As we reflect on the sobering lessons of atheist extremism of the 20th century, let us never forget how the exclusion of God, religion and virtue from public life leads ultimately to a truncated vision of man and of society and thus a reductive vision of a person and his destiny."

The Pope also took time on his earlier flight from Rome to speak of his "sadness" over his church's handling of child abuse scandals.


Source (c) Sky News 2010

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Our Readers' Poll of Top Ten Family Movies

If you're looking for an affordable fun-filled activity that you and your family members can enjoy, then you don't need to reinvent the wheel. Watch a movie! Although not every movie is appropriate for children, there are still tons that are. Here are 10 fun, wholesome films in no particular order that every member of your family can enjoy:

1. The Wizard of Oz (1939)

This is an oldie-but-goodie film that never seems to become outdated. The film is based on the children's novel by L. Frank Baum, of the same title. "The Wizard of Oz" is about Dorothy Gale, 12-year-old girl from a Kansas farm. After becoming unconscious during a tornado, Dorothy and her dog Toto seem to be transported to the world of Oz. There, she meets a host of memorable characters.

2. The Parent Trap (1961)

This original version was much better than the 1998 remake. The Disney film is based on the life of teenage identical twins, and their (divorced) parents. Sharon and Susan meet at summer came, but don't realize that they're actually sisters. After becoming friends, they learn that their parents had divorced soon after the twins were born. The twins switch places, and ultimately attempt to reunite their parents.

3. Mary Poppins (1964)

This Disney musical stared Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke, and was based on the Mary Poppins books written by P.L. Travers. The story is based on the adventures experienced by the Banks' family's new nanny, Mary Poppins; Mary's friend Bert; and the Banks' children Jane and Michael. "Marry Poppins" won five Academy Awards, and was nominated for 13 awards-an all-time record for Disney films.

4. The Bad News Bears (1976)

This original film is heads and shoulders better than the 2005 remake, and is also arguably one of the best sports films ever made. The movie is about Morris Buttermaker, who's recruited to coach the worst team in a Southern California baseball Little League. Although the Bears' first game of the season is a disaster, the team eventually earns a spot in the Little League championship.

5. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

This film stars a young Drew Barrymore before she became a household name in Hollywood. The story is about Elliott, a lonely boy who becomes friends with an extraterrestrial named "E.T." Elliott and his sibling try to keep E.T. hidden from their mother and the U.S. government, while E.T. strives to return home.

6. Back to the Future (1985)

The film is the story of Marty McFly, played by Michael J. Fox. McFly is a teenager who accidentally travels back in time, from 1985 to 1955. Afterwards, he meets his parents while they're high school students. Marty has two missions: to make his parents fall in love with each other, and to find a way back to the future-the year 1985.

7. The Princess Bride (1987)

This is not only a fun family film-it's also funny! The film is based on grandfather's reading a book to his ill grandson. The humor in the fairytale is what makes it different from run-of-the-mill fairy-tales featured in other family films. It's a film with multiple layers.

8. Toy Story (1995)

The film was the first computer-animated family film to be produced, and was the first feature film in history to be made entirely using Computer-Generated Imagery (CGI). It also features voice acting by several Hollywood stars. The story is about the toys of eight-year-old Andy. The toys come to life whenever humans aren't around.

9. Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (2001)

This is the first film in the series, which introduces the audience to the world of Harry Potter. On his eleventh birthday, Harry Potter learns that he's a wizard. He then must attend the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, to begin his education in magic. There he meets Ron and Hermione, who become his best friends.

10. Shrek (2001)

"Shrek" is an animated comedy film that was the first movie to win the "Best Animated Feature" award at the Academy Awards. The movie is about an ogre named Shrek, a beautiful princess named Fiona, and Donkey-a chatty donkey.

While several family movies have been produced in the history of film, these aforementioned ones are some of the best-of-the-best. If you have a DVD player then you're ready to enjoy an evening of quality entertainment with your family.

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Forty billionaires to give away wealth

Forty American billionaires have pledged to give at least half of their fortunes to charity as part of a campaign by Bill Gates and Warren Buffett. Microsoft founder Gates and investor Buffett, who are worth a combined $90bn (£56.6bn), have persuaded 38 of their fellow billionaires to sign up.

The friends and philanthropists started The Giving Pledge last month.

Its aim is to persuade fellow billionaires to pledge the money to charity, either in their lifetime or after they die.

Buffett said: "We've really just started, but already we've had a terrific response.

"At its core, the Giving Pledge is about asking wealthy families to have important conversations about their wealth and how it will be used."

He added: "We're delighted that so many people are doing just that - and that so many have decided to not only take this pledge but also to commit to sums far greater than the 50% minimum level."

Those who sign the pledge are also invited to publish a letter explaining their decision.

Among the latest batch to have signed up is New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who is worth $18bn (£11.3bn).

In his letter Bloomberg wrote: "Making a difference in people's lives - and seeing it with your own eyes - is perhaps the most satisfying thing you'll ever do. If you want to fully enjoy life - give.

"And if you want to do something for your children and show how much you love them, the single best thing - by far - is to support organisations that will create a better world for them and their children."

Joining him is Star Wars Director George Lucas.

Lucas wrote: "My pledge is to the process; as long as I have the resources at my disposal, I will seek to raise the bar for future generations of students of all ages."

Others on the list include entertainment executive Barry Diller ($1.2bn, £775m), Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison ($28bn, £17.6bn), energy tycoon T. Boone Pickens ($1.1bn, £692m), media mogul Ted Turner ($4.8bn, £3bn), banker David Rockefeller ($2.2bn, £1.3bn) and investor Ronald Perelman ($11bn, £6.9bn).

They join Eli Broad, who made his money in property, venture capitalist John Doerr, media entrepreneur Gerry Lenfest and former Cisco Systems Chairman John Morgridge in supporting the effort.

The US has 403 billionaires, the most of any country, and all together they have a combined fortune of $1.3 trillion.

Mr Buffett himself pledged to give 99% of his wealth to good causes in 2006.

Gates and Buffet will now wine and dine other billionaires in an attempt to persuade them to follow suit.


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