What role should the media play in promoting diversity and social cohesion in Britain and in Europe?
The media must reflect society in all its diversity. It has a responsibility not to unnecessarily jeopardise social cohesion. It also needs to think carefully about not creating stereotypes of any section of society. I’m a firm believer in media freedom and I don’t think there should be lots of prescription but journalists have to understand their responsibilities to the wider society. We can’t operate in a vacuum. But at the same time, the media must not duck difficult issues or do anything less than tell the full truth, however uncomfortable. 2. Should the media act as a ”responsible partner” in an increasingly multicultural environment? This is a difficult area. For instance, an impartial news organisation needs to reflect a full diversity of opinions. The question presupposes that multiculturalism is a good thing. Yet if many in the UK do not feel this way – and many don’t – should we not reflect that? 3. How would you respond to the complaint that freedom of speech allows extrem
