National Politics

Fair comment is a defence journalists can use to express their opinions, with the expectation that your comment is in the public's interest, without malice and without being defamatory and invading people’s private life. (Human Rights Act) When writing for newspapers, the print is biased depending on whether they are right or left wing. However, when writing for TV or Radio you must be balanced towards both parties.

John Wilkes is one of the only Journalists to have a statue in London. He is classed as a Hero for establishing Statutory Qualified Privilege for reporting on Parliament. 

Westminster: Qualified Privilege allows Journalists to report about anything said in the House, but sub-judice rule and contempt need to be taking in to consideration. The rule that the Royals cannot be mentioned is also firmly implemented. Voting in the House of commons is called a division, the parties try to enforce the way MPs vote by whipping. Whips are the parties "enforcers" they discipline and threaten party members with punishments to ensure they secure a vote.

In the House of Lords, all new laws must be approved by both Houses of Parliament, with the exception of tax raising measures which are for MPs to decide upon. Peers are not elected and do not represent constituencies. They are not paid a salary though they can claim expenses. Peers are also not allowed to vote on change to taxation and finance. Peers never have the final word. Amendments must be agreed by both Houses. If there is disagreement then the Lords do no have the power to reject legislation, it can be over ruled by the government’s use of the Parliament Acts. 

Hansard is the official report of the proceedings of Parliament, published daily. Here is the link below:

http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm/cmhansrd.htm