The Government published a Code of Recommended Practice on Local Authority Publicity in 2011.
The Government published a Code of Recommended Practice on Local Authority Publicity in 2011. The Code is based around seven principles to ensure that all communications activity:
- is lawful
- is cost effective
- is objective
- is even-handed
- is appropriate
- has regard to equality and diversity
- is issued with care during periods of heightened sensitivity.
This last principle, to ensure special care is taken during periods of heightened sensitivity, is of particular relevance during the pre-election period.
At all times, local authorities should ensure that publicity complies with all applicable statutory provisions, including the Code of Recommended Practice on Local Authority Publicity 2011. Paid-for advertising must comply with the Advertising Standards Authority’s Advertising Codes.
In general, authorities should:
- not issue any publicity which seeks to influence voters
- ensure that publicity relating to policies and proposals from central government is balanced and factually accurate
- comply with laws which prohibit political advertising on television or radio.