Unauthorised press releases (FOI)​

Request

A list of occasions in which press releases have been sent out by the Communications unit to media sources without completing the full press release sign-off protocol.

Additionally, a list of press releases that include quotes from senior civil servants who did not approve / sign off on said quotes.

Response

There is one known incidence of a press release being issued to the media which included a quote from a Minister, and was issued without that Minister's approval, due to a misunderstanding. This was in 2019, in connection with a housing matter.

In addition, Journalists submit many questions daily, and officers provide advice and information. This is done with line management and ministerial approval depending on the nature of the enquiry, and as practical.