Press conference explanation for politicians

THE EDITOR: Sometimes I have to wonder if some of our politicians understand the purpose of a press conference and why it's called that.

So what is a press conference?

A simple Google search defines a press conference or news conference as a media event in which notable individuals or organisations invite reporters to hear them speak and to ask questions. Press conferences are often held by politicians, corporations, non-governmental organisations, as well as organisers of newsworthy events.

When a press conference is called it is expected the reporters will listen and ask relevant questions that will allow them to report to their radio listeners, newspaper readers and television viewers as accurate a picture as possible of the particular event.

But when the reporters attending a press conference are told, from the onset, the person holding the conference will not be entertaining questions, that throws a different light on the event for it now means the reporters attend, listen and leave with a press release. This no doubt allows for speculation.

So in future if press conferences are to be held in which the main or any other speaker notifies, in advance, that no questions will be entertained, then the media should simply get up and leave a notetaker with a good memory for the signal is clear that the holder of the conference expects to have printed-broadcast only what he or she wants you to read/hear. No questions asked.

C PETERS

via e-mail