UK one of worst-ranked Western Europe countries in press freedom index

Heavy-handed State restrictions and hostility towards journalists were today blamed for the UK’s poor record on protecting press freedom.

It was ranked second-worst in Western Europe and only 40th — the same as last year — out of 180 nations, in the Reporters Without Borders (RSF) world press freedom index.

The RSF highlighted Conservatives and Labour restricting media access during last year’s General Election. BBC political editor Laura Kuenssberg received online abuse, and had a bodyguard at the Labour Party conference.

The RSF said an “alarming proposal” to replace the Official Secrets Act with an Espionage Act could result in journalists who obtain leaked information being jailed as “spies”.

RSF UK director Rebecca Vincent said: “This is unacceptable for a country that plays an important international standard-setting role when it comes to human rights and fundamental freedoms.” The News Media Association said the industry was under threat, and restrictions on freedom could see newspapers close. Only Italy ranked lower in Europe. The US came 45th, Norway was top and North Korea was bottom.