Union backs case to save a source

THE NUJ is backing an investigative journalist facing a court order to hand over confidential material. Shiv Malik is defending his work reporting on alleged terrorist organisations.

Police obtained the order at Manchester Crown Court although the person whom Shiv Malik had interviewed, providing the notes they are seeking to obtain, was willing to speak to them.

With the NUJ funding his case, the High Court in London has given Shiv Malik permission to challenge the order, but he still faces the prospect of jail if it is upheld and he fails to comply.

Shiv Malik’s work in uncovering jihadist activity was praised last November by the head of MI5, Jonathan Evans, in his speech to the Society of Editors conference — ironically held in Manchester while the NUJ demonstrated outside on its Stand Up for Journalism day of action.

General Secretary Jeremy Dear said: “This case is of enormous importance to the future of investigative journalism. In backing this case we are again standing up for journalism.”

The Journalist is published by the National Union of Journalists