What is the role of the media in Scottish politics?
The media鈥檚 role is to inform the Scottish public on issues that affect the people of Scotland. These can be local, national or international.
Print media in Scotland
Many Scots used to get their political news from newspapers but in recent years the internet has become more popular as a source. However, thousands of newspapers are still sold every day and many people read newspaper articles online.
In Scotland, the most popular newspapers are The Scottish Sun and The Daily Record. The most widely read broadsheet papers are The Herald and The Scotsman.
Newspapers don鈥檛 have to be balanced. As long as the information is accurate, the newspaper can print what they like. This means that different newspapers can report the same story in different ways. They can do this by choosing different stories, pictures and headline.
During elections, newspapers are often very clear about which political party they are supporting and urge their readers to vote for. This does not mean that all voters are persuaded by the newspaper they read.
Broadcast media in Scotland
Broadcast media means television and radio.
Television and radio news reporting is different from newspapers. The law says that they have to be fair and balanced.
Different representatives from different political parties are expected to be allowed to give their views on important issues. In recent years, a number of TV debates have been broadcast involving the leaders of different parties.
Internet and social media
More people are using the internet to source information, especially social media.
Unlike television and radio channels, the internet allows almost anyone to post almost anything they choose. This means that some information may not be accurate. However, the internet does allow for people to have almost unlimited access to information, and this means that people can now be more informed.
Political parties are using social media more and more. This means that political parties can interact with the voters. They can share information about what they would do if elected and then keep voters up to date with what they are doing between elections. This also allows voters to interact with MSPs. They can ask questions and raise issues easily.