The Press Complaints Commission has extended the use of its emergency hotline for members of the public harassed by journalists.

The hotline used to apply only to journalists from the press but has now been extended to include broadcast journalists too.

It is thought the change may be particularly relevant to members of the Muslim community after recent events in London.

Those who believe they are being harassed by journalists should call 07659 152 656. Through the 24-hour hotline, the relevant media organisation will be contacted.

However the onus remains on the news organisation itself to pull its journalists off the story or try a different method to obtain news.

The PCC states: "Sometimes, people are only too happy to speak to journalists in such circumstances. There are occasions, however, when people will want to be left alone, and this may be one of them. If repeated approaches occur - for example if the journalist does not know that you do not wish to speak - these can be upsetting."

It adds: "There may be very rare instances too where a journalist may otherwise try to harass you in breach of the Code of Practice." Only if there is a clear public interest in doing so can journalists breach the code it says.

The code of practice states that journalists "must not engage in intimidation, harassment or persistent pursuit".

"They must not persist in questioning, telephoning, pursuing or photographing individuals once asked to desist; nor remain on their property when asked to leave and must not follow them.

"Editors must ensure these principles are observed by those working for them and take care not to use non-compliant material from other sources."

Press Complaints Commission