Brexit

Political Headlines – Labour moves towards Brexit compromise and Independent Group makes Umunna spokesperson

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Today’s political headlines include Labour’s plans to compromise on Brexit votes, Umunna named spokesperson of the Independent Group and NHS to scrap A&E target. 

Labour moves towards Brexit referendum compromise plan
The Guardian says that the Labour Party is ‘moving towards a compromise plan’ under which it would abstain on Theresa May’s Brexit deal, allowing it to pass through Parliament, but would back an amendment put forward by Peter Kyle and Phil Wilson ‘withholding support’ from the deal until it had been voted on by the public. Kyle claims to have ‘every reason to believe’ that Parliament will vote for his proposal.

Independent Group makes Umunna spokesperson
The BBC reports that the Independent Group of MPs has appointed Chukka Umunna as its lead spokesperson, while Sarah Wollaston has been given responsibility for ‘new colleagues’. Each member of the group has been allocated a group of policy areas on which they will lead. Umunna said that these drew on ‘the talents and experiences of our group’.

NHS to scrap A & E four hour target
The Times says that NHS England wishes to axe the target for hospitals to treat A&E patients within four hours because it leads to the system being gamed, rather than the best care being provided. New targets, focused on those requiring a hospital bed rather than those with minor injuries, will be piloted in the spring.

Tory Brexiteers prepared to back deal if May announces plan to quit
According to The Sun, Brexiteer MPs have told the Prime Minister that they will support her deal, even if she only gets minor amendments to it, so long as she outlines a timetable for her departure as Prime Minister this year. This would allow her successor to negotiate the future trade deal with the EU.

Eustice quits over Brexit extension
The Times reports that Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Minister George Eustice resigned yesterday, citing the Government’s ‘series of rather undignified retreats’ over Brexit. According to the paper, he criticised the Prime Minister’s decision to seek an extension to Brexit negotiations at a meeting she held with 16 Brexiteer ministers the night before.

Salary increase for MPs sparks outrage
The Daily Mail claims that a decision to increase MPs’ salary by 2.7% sparked ‘fury’. The announcement by the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority has been criticised for outstripping increases for parliamentary staffers and civil servants, while Leave campaigner John Longworth said there should be no rise until Brexit had been ‘sorted out’.

Grayling’s probation reforms criticised
The Daily Telegraph carries details of a ‘damning report’ by the National Audit Office on probation reforms introduced by Chris Grayling while he was Justice Secretary. According to the report, the number of offenders returned to prison for breaching their licence conditions has increased by 47% while a plan to end contracts early will cost an extra £467m.

Fox criticised over expensive ‘vanity project’ podcast
The Daily Mirror reports that International Trade Secretary Liam Fox has spent over £100,000 on a podcast series hosted by Nick Hewer which was designed to encourage firms to export their goods, but just 8,398 people have listened to it, with each listener therefore costing the taxpayer £12.70. Lib Dem MP Layla Moran called the podcast a ‘vanity project’.

The UK is due to leave the EU this month. Stay in the loop with Vuelio Political Services.

MK and Wadds

Comms School aims to create top bloggers of the future  

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Top PR bloggers and Metia colleagues, Stephen Waddington and Marcel Klebba, have joined forces to help students get ahead in their careers through blogging and creating communities. We spoke to them to find out what Comms School is and how it’s going to help progression in the industry. 

What is Comms School?
It’s a community for anyone that’s keen to learn practical communication skills to get ahead in their job. During the initial 12-week course we’ll cover the basic skills you need to land a job and get ahead. We’re running webinars every other week.

Who are you?
Stephen recently landed at Metia, the digital marketing agency, as managing director. Marcel is a new colleague who captured industry attention in 2016 thanks to his relentless approach to blogging and networking while at Westminster University. We’ve both been named top ten industry bloggers by Vuelio for the past few years and Marcel was crowned the UK’s top PR blogger in 2017 [pictured, above, with Stephen celebrating his win].

Why have you set up Comms School?
There’s a gap between what students are taught at college or university and the practical skills needed to get ahead at work. Mentoring, work placements, Twitters chats and initiatives such as Richard Bailey’s #PRstudent blogging community all help. We want to help people that are looking to get ahead in their career as well as create a talent pipeline for Metia.

What will success look like?
We want to help students land jobs by blogging and building networks. It would be great to see our students feature in the Vuelio blog ranking in the future and maybe there will even be an award-winning blogger among our graduates.

What topics will you cover?
The six sessions and online discussions will cover blogging; building a social profile; developing an online community; content creation; and finding a job and getting ahead.

How do I join a session?
We’ve built a virtual classroom on Facebook. Follow the link or search for Comms School. Please come and join the growing community of more than 300 people. Sessions start on 5 March.

School’s in – good luck to everyone taking part in Comms School, we look forward to seeing you in our rankings soon! 

Theresa May

Political Headlines – May to make pledge on workers’ rights to secure Labour MPs’ support

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Today’s political headlines include May’s pledge to secure Labour support, Labour confirms backing for second referendum and Tory MPs rebel over plan for extending Brexit vote. 

May to make pledge on workers’ rights to secure Labour MPs’ support for Brexit deal
The Guardian says that Theresa May is expected to use a ministerial statement next week to set out a series of pledges on workers’ rights and to reduce restrictions on trade unions in a bid to secure Labour MPs’ backing for her Brexit deal/ Measures to be offered include a ‘non-regression lock’ after Brexit, votes by MPs on adopting future EU rules on workers’ rights, and a reporting mechanism involving trade unions and the CBI on these. Housing, Communities and Local Government Secretary James Brokenshire is expected to announce a £1.6bn fund for towns and coastal communities before the next meaningful vote.

Labour confirms backing for second referendum
As the BBC reports, Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has confirmed that his party is now backing a new Brexit referendum after MPs voted against his Brexit plans, and that he would vote to remain a member of the EU. He added that he will continue to pursue ‘other available options’, such as a general election or Labour’s plan for a ‘close economic relationship’.

Tory MPs rebel over plan for vote on extending Brexit negotiations
The Daily Telegraph reports that over 100 Conservative MPs revelled yesterday against Government plans to give MPs a vote on extending Article 50 if Theresa May’s deal is rejected. 20 of them, including Esther McVey, voted against the proposal with a further 88 choosing to abstain in protest, including Boris Johnson, Dominic Raab and Jacob Rees-Mogg.

Norwegian sovereign wealth fund to increase investments in the UK despite Brexit
The Times says that Norway’s sovereign wealth fund, the world’s largest, has decided to increase its exposure to British investments whatever the outcome of the Brexit negotiations, claiming that the UK was still an attractive destination over the next 30 plus years. Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg welcomed the news, but Chris Leslie of the Independent Group said that Brexit meant that ‘British assets are in the global bargain basement’.

Economic sentiment lowest in six years over no-deal Brexit fears
The Financial Times reports that economic sentiment in the UK has fallen this month, reaching its lowest level in six years according to a European Commission indicator. The CBI said that the best way to improve this was to avoid a no-deal Brexit and agree ‘a deal that commands a majority in parliament and is acceptable to the EU and protects our economy’.

Williamson suspended after Labour MPs revolt over antisemitism
The Daily Mail claims that Labour only suspended its MP Chris Williamson for saying that the party was ‘too apologetic’ for antisemitism because 38 MPs and deputy leader Tom Watson pressed for this, with leader Jeremy Corbyn having initially ‘intervened personally to block his suspension’, pledging only to ‘investigate’ the remarks.

Burns under investigation over Thatcher library charity
The Times claims that Conservative MP Conor Burns is ‘under scrutiny’ from the Charity Commission over his involvement in a campaign to build a library and museum dedicated to Margaret Thatcher. Much of the money raised by the campaign has apparently instead been spent on other things, including student exchanges between the UK and the USA.

May to defend aid budget
The Sun says that Theresa May is to use a speech at a conference on Jordan today to defend the £14bn aid budget, pledging to continue spending 0.7% of GDP on foreign aid. She will promise that the UK will continue to be a ‘global champion’, spending aid ‘innovatively and in a way that delivers value of money for the UK taxpayer’.

Don’t play catch up with the news – see what’s coming with Vuelio Political Services.

No deal brexit

Political Headlines – ‘Acrimony’ in Cabinet and May calls on Parliament to ‘do its duty’

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Today’s political headlines include Acrimony in Cabinet over potential Brexit talks extension, May calls on Parliament to ‘do its duty’ and Government document warns of no-deal impact. 

‘Acrimony’ in Cabinet over potential Brexit talks extension
The Times claims that Theresa May’s decision to allow MPs to vote on extending negotiations for a ‘short, limited’ period if they reject her deal sparked ‘acrimony’ in yesterday’s Cabinet meeting. Liz Truss accused Amber Rudd, David Gauke and Greg Clark, who have been pushing for such a move, of ‘kamikaze’ behaviour. The Guardian adds that Cabinet ministers including Philip Hammond and Amber Rudd told May that she should use an extension of the Brexit negotiations to ‘find a new coalition in Parliament’ and tackle the Conservative Party’s Brexiteer wing.

May calls on Parliament to ‘do its duty’
Theresa May has written in the Daily Mail that her ‘engagement’ with the EU over Brexit has ‘already begun to bear fruit’, calling on Parliament to vote for her deal and ‘do its duty so our country can move forward’, adding that she doesn’t want an Article 50 extension. David Davis also writes in the paper, claiming that fears about no-deal are ‘exaggerated’ and that while it might ‘be economically difficult, no Brexit would be a democratic disaster’.

Government document warns of no-deal Brexit impact
The Guardian reports that a new document published by the Government after being repeatedly demanded by Anna Soubry warns that a no-deal Brexit could make the British economy 6%-9% weaker, lead to Northern Irish businesses failing and increase food prices.

Probation contractors attacked over murders by offenders they supervised
In an exclusive, the Daily Mirror reveals that in the first four years since probation was privatised, criminals being monitored by contractors have killed 225 people, compared to 142 murders by higher-risk offenders being monitored by the state probation service. The figures were obtained by Plaid Cymru MP Liz Saville Roberts who called for an end to privatisation. Harry Fletcher of the Victims Rights Campaign said the news was a ‘scandal’.

Allin-Khan tells MPs her father was left ‘bleeding and terrified’ in council care home
The Guardian reports that Labour’s Shadow Sport Minister Dr Rosena Allin-Khan told the Commons during a debate yesterday that her father was left ‘bruised, bleeding and terrified’ in a Wandsworth Council care facility, with the council’s director of adult social services telling her that he ‘had asked for it’.

Williamson criticised after claiming Labour was ‘too apologetic’ for antisemitism
The BBC reports that Labour MP Chris Williamson has been criticised after video footage of him claiming that his party had been ‘too apologetic’ about antisemitism emerged, and it was revealed that he had booked a room in Parliament to screen a film about Jackie Walker, who was suspended from Labour over allegedly antisemitic comments.

Department for Transport criticised over rail failures
The Times carries details of a new report by the Commons Public Accounts Committee which warns that 2018’s ‘year of hell’ on the rail network could be repeated due to timetable changes and increasing engineering work, with the Department for Transport having failed to learn lessons, not having clear sight of the timetabling process and as a result ‘passengers and taxpayers risk continuing to pay the price for the department’s failures’.

Corbyn apologises for breaching Commons rules over foreign visit
The Daily Telegraph says that Jeremy Corbyn has ‘apologised unreservedly’ after he was found to have breached Commons rules by not declaring a trip to America with the CND. However, he’s been cleared of allegations that a further 16 trips broke the rules, including a trip to Tunisia where he participated in a controversial wreath-laying ceremony.

Political intelligence is available from Vuelio Political Services.

DEFRA

Government comms focuses on influencer outreach

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Michael Gove’s announcement that he has appointed 10 ‘green ambassadors’ is the latest sign that the political and influencer worlds are colliding.

Under Gove, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has embarked on an ambitious programme of work. Some of this is forced – leaving the EU requires major changes to agricultural, fisheries and environmental policies – but much of it seems to stem from Gove’s own desire to make a mark.

Indeed, improving our environment seems to have become something of a personal mission for Gove, who tweeted that footage of the impact of plastic pollution on our oceans in David Attenborough’s Blue Planet II had left him ‘haunted’. Measures he has announced include a ban on plastic straws, stirrers and cotton buds and a deposit return scheme for drinks containers.

When Theresa May launched the 25-Year Environment Plan in January 2018, one of its measures was a commitment to make 2019 the ‘Year of Green Action’, alongside a commitment to scope out ‘an evidence-based behaviour change strategy’. Indeed, one of the most important parts of delivering the environmental change our planet requires is to deliver behavioural change by getting us to appreciate our impact on the environment.

With this in mind, it is hardly surprising that Gove has chosen to work with influencers in order to communicate his department’s environmental message. By moving beyond ‘traditional’ ambassadors – you might expect such a list to contain charity leaders, academics or high-profile businesspeople – Gove will know that his message is reaching a larger, more diverse audience that more conventional figures simply wouldn’t reach.

Indeed, the list of ten ambassadors is wide-ranging. It contains Besma Whayeb, whose blog Curiously Curious was ranked as one the top ten UK green blogs by Vuelio, and Sian Conway, the Green & Eco Influencer of the Year 2018. Alongside these, the list also includes an endurance swimmer, television presenters and an adventurer who sailed across the Pacific in a boat made of 12,500 plastic bottles. And while there is an academic – Professor Tim Jackson – even he has nearly 11,000 Twitter followers.

Gove’s expressed hope is that his strategy will, ‘ensure that this country is recognised as the leading global champion of a greener, healthier, more sustainable future for the next generation’.

The ambassadors were introduced at a reception which also featured the #iwill4nature campaign, encouraging young people to take part in green social action. Among the newly-announced influencers was the student Izzy McLeod, who blogs as The Quirky Queer. It seems clear that by working with younger influencers to spread messages about environmental responsibility to their peers, Defra hopes reaching the next generation and implementing its environmental goals will be much easier.

Scott Guthrie

PR Blogger Spotlight: Scott Guthrie

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Scott Guthrie’s blog focuses on informing PRs on everything to do with influencer marketing, alongside content around wider comms topics. Scott Guthrie is one of our Top 10 UK PR Blogs and we caught up with him to talk about influencer marketing issues in 2019, top tips for pitching and why The Body Shop is winning at influencer marketing so far this year. 

What’s in store for the blog in 2019?
More of the same. I wrote 47 articles on influencer marketing for my blog in 2018 plus a dozen or so covering public relations in general. Increasingly my aim is to peer over the brow of the hill at the issues influencer marketing is likely to face in the near and midterm.

Last year I foresaw three major issues for the nascent industry: influencer fraud; lack of transparency in disclosing advertisements; and a media backlash. These issues will rumble on throughout 2019 but we will also look beyond compliance to consider the ethics surrounding influencer marketing. For example, we will consider why it’s not okay to promote gambling sites to young, impressionable audiences, and why ‘merch’ shouldn’t be so oversold. The industry will also start to ask questions about kidfluencers, image manipulation and virtual influencers. I’ll be writing about these issues and how the industry approaches them via regulation and trade body codes of conduct.

How has PR changed since you first got into the industry?
I can still (vaguely) recall foot messengers delivering financial results and press releases by hand to the City editors. While in newsrooms rip and read printers spewed out headlines from the Press Association. Press releases were usually faxed to newsrooms. The importance of a good story told well from a trusted source hasn’t changed. The technology surrounding news acquisition and distribution has. Technology has splintered the entire media landscape.

How much is Brexit affecting comms in the UK?
Brexit is affecting comms in two ways: by seemingly keeping all other news from front page for almost two years; and, by heightening a sense of anxiety. My clients are typically small businesses. Small business accounts for over 99% of all private sector businesses in the UK. Yet, just 6% of small and medium-sized businesses feel the Government is listening to their concerns about Brexit. That is causing them anxiety and preventing them from making any significant business decisions.

What’s the biggest issue facing the industry (outside of Brexit)?
Influencer marketing offers an amazing opportunity to the public relations industry. The discipline can transcend ‘selling stuff’ to embolden positive reputation, communicate an organisation’s purpose, assist in a crisis situation, or scale subject matter expertise heightening employee advocacy in the process. The biggest issue is the risk that these opportunities are passed up by the PR industry. The risk that these opportunities are squandered; handed over to the other creative industries only for us to look back in future years and realise our mistake. The same mistakes of missed opportunity that we saw with failing to shape the future of social media, SEO or content marketing.

Are traditional media outlets losing their importance to the industry?
There is no secret that the media has fragmented from print, to online and social media. In turn influencers have emerged on every media, in every market. This does not mean that traditional media outlets are no longer important. It does mean that, as effective communicators, we need to know which mastheads, broadcasters and individuals are influencing the important people we are seeking to influence on behalf of our clients. Our opportunity is to work with these organisations and influencers and to engage with their networks in the way we have traditionally done solely with journalists.

What’s the best campaign of 2019 so far?
The Body Shop works with influencers in two very separate ways: to sell product; and to affect positive social change. For its Forever Against Testing campaign, the cosmetic company sought to gather eight million signatures in the form of a petition to take to the United Nations. The campaign over achieved its objective in under the time allocated: 8.3m signatures in 3/4 time. The campaign demonstrated a fundamental element of influencer marketing – that influencers can help affect change in behaviour and opinion. And that the change needn’t be confined to a purchase decision. The campaign also highlighted the importance of an integrated communications programme.

What advice would you give students looking to join the PR industry?
Read widely and read deeply. Acquire a firm understanding about how the PR industry is put together and look to specialise in a particular area. Follow relevant hashtags on LinkedIn and Twitter. Start to form your own opinion then codify and collate those opinions into your own blog. Writing about a subject is a wonderful way to better understand that subject. It is great way to showcase your mastery of the subject and mark yourself out from other graduates looking to enter the industry.

What’s your best pitch tip for PRs?
Never pitch blind. Know who you’re pitching to. Know what they’ve written or broadcast recently. Know their point of view. Understand their audience. Attempt to establish a degree of relationship before you need to pitch. That might mean following the journalist on social media, sharing their articles and commenting on them. My best pitch advice is to be useful to the journalist.

What other blogs do you read?
I am a major fan of Richard Bailey’s work at PR Place. He edits the site and his Friday morning round-up posts are a must-read for PR practitioners regardless of whether they are just starting out or well-established in their careers. I also enjoy talkinginfluence.com, stedavies.com, influenceonline.co.uk,orlaghclaire.com, and the Vuelio Blog natch!

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Magazine rack

ABC releases magazine circulation figures for the second half of 2018

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According to the Audit Bureau of Circulations (ABC), many magazines saw a decline in circulation for the second half of last year.

For women’s magazines, Red and Bella grew the most, by 7% and 6% respectively but for a large number of magazines it was a different story. The biggest year-on-year falls were experienced by Now magazine (43% decline) and Cosmopolitan (23% decline).

Mark Winterton, managing director for women’s weeklies and TV at TI Media, told Press Gazette: ‘We are starting to see the benefit of our bold decision to go against the grain and remove our women’s weeklies titles from bigger packs.

‘While the overall ABC results reflect the initial impact of stripping out the bigger packs from our promotional activity, which inflates sales figures, these single copy sales are indicative of the rewards of doing so. Our investment in audience research and editorial redevelopment will continue across all titles in the portfolio.’

Rob Munro-Hall, group managing director at Bauer Magazine Media UK, owner of second highest circulation magazine Bella, said: ‘Our focus on curating the highest quality content continues to drive engagement on all platforms – with print remaining proudly at the heart of what we do.’

For men’s interest magazines, Stuff’s circulation fell 27% year-on-year between July and December 2018. The now-closed free magazine Shortlist recorded the highest circulation, shifting an average 500,000 copies per issue.

For news magazines, The Week’s circulation fell by over 25%, while its sister title The Week Junior grew by as much.

Marina Haydn, managing director of circulation at The Economist, said it has worked with ABC to change how its circulation figures are reported, consolidating its print offerings and separating it from its digital publication figures. Haydn said this reflected The Economist’s “product neutrality” as customers can choose between print and digital’.

This new format shows The Economist with a print circulation drop of 38%, as print figures are being compared to combined print and digital figures from last year.

According to the Economist, like-for-like figures would put its print circulation down by 10% year-on-year and its digital circulation up by 83% year-on-year.

All the ABCs are updated in the Vuelio Media Database, helping you to make informed decisions about which outlets work for you. 

Jeremy Corbyn

Political Headlines – Corbyn to support second referendum if MPs reject Labour’s Brexit plan

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Today’s political headlines include Corbyn to support second referendum if MPs reject Labour’s Brexit plan, May to offer MPs Brexit delay, ministers call on May to rule out no-deal Brexit and UK would pay divorce bill in no-deal scenario. 

Corbyn to support second referendum if MPs reject Labour’s Brexit plan
The Guardian says that Jeremy Corbyn has ‘finally’ given Labour’s backing to a second Brexit referendum, in which remain would be an option. The party has said it will back such a vote if its Brexit proposals are rejected this week, in a move designed to stem defections to the Independent Group but which will lead to opposition from MPs with leave-voting seats.

May to offer MPs Brexit delay
The Financial Times reports that Theresa May is to ‘offer MPs the chance to take a no-deal Brexit off the table’, making a statement in the Commons later today in which she will say that there could be a ‘short’ delay in Brexit. This morning’s Cabinet will be presented with a new plan, with a ‘meaningful vote’ on a revised Brexit deal on March 12, and if this is rejected there would be a further vote between a no-deal Brexit or a ‘short extension’.

Ministers call on May to rule out no-deal Brexit to prevent a ‘disaster’
The Daily Mail claims that Theresa May is ready to rule out a no-deal Brexit after 23 dissident ministers met in the Commons last night to discuss how to prevent such as scenario. Up to 15 are believed to be prepared to resign, with ministers Richard Harrington, Margot James and Clare Perry writing in the paper that, if Parliament doesn’t agree a deal by March 13, May must extend the negotiations, or they ‘will have no choice other than to join MPs of all parties and fellow ministers in acting in the national interest to prevent a disaster’.

UK would pay ‘divorce bill’ in no-deal Brexit scenario
The Daily Telegraph says that a Cabinet committee dealing with preparations for a no-deal Brexit has signed off plans to settle a large part of the £39bn Brexit settlement even if there is a no-deal Brexit, despite the expectation of Brexiteers that it would not be payable in such a scenario. The Treasury has advised that at least part of the settlement is legally unavoidable and failing to honour the UK’s commitments would risk the UK’s debt rating.

New poll shows Independent Group and Lib Dems combined would outpoll Labour
The Times carries details of a new YouGov poll which shows that the combined level of support of the Independent Group and the Liberal Democrats is now higher than that of Labour. Labour are on 23%, the Independent Group (TIG) on 18% and the Liberal Democrats on 6%. However, the Conservatives are on 36%. Without TIG the Conservatives are on 41%, Labour are on 30% and the Lib Dems on 10%.

Shuker to convene the Independent Group
The Guardian reports that the Independent Group has selected Gavin Shuker as its convenor, having decided to postpone selecting a leader until later this year, when it hopes to have become a political party. Specialist spokesperson roles may be announced earlier, while the group has rebuffed suggestions from the Lib Dems that they might work together.

Government to protect sensitive sectors with tariffs
According to the Financial Times, the Government has decided to protect ‘sensitive agricultural and manufacturing sectors’ after a no-deal Brexit by maintaining tariffs, while dropping tariffs on most other goods. As 30% of the food consumed in the UK comes from the EU, this will push up prices for consumers.

May faces rebellion over EU citizens’ rights
The Daily Telegraph claims that Theresa May is facing a ‘major rebellion’ after over 130 MPs, including 60 Conservatives, backed an amendment to her Brexit motion demanding a written guarantee on the right of EU citizens in the UK in a no-deal Brexit scenario. Backers include both Brexiteers such as Jacob Rees-Mogg and pro-EU MPs including Dominic Grieve.

These political headlines are put together by Vuelio Political Services.

Get Ahead with forward planning

How good is your forward planning?

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Forward planning lets you make the most of your time – but how well are you planning ahead? 

Whether you want to fill your calendar with the best events and awards, understand the benefits of setting time aside for training, or make the most of forward features, our latest white paper gives you practical advice to improve your planning in 2019.

Get Ahead with Forward Planning teaches:

  • How to create award-winning campaigns in 2019, with tips from the top
  • Why everyone in PR should have regular training
  • How to use forward features to secure earned media coverage

The white paper presents actionable steps for making the most of your plan this year and can be used a resource for everything from the training sessions you should attend to the award ceremonies you should enter.

Download Get Ahead with Forward Planning – PR awards, training & forward features.

Ella Minty, Power and Influence

PR Blogger Spotlight: Ella Minty, Power & Influence

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Ella Minty created the Power & Influence blog and is responsible for the popular #powerandinfluence Twitter chats. The Power & Influence blog is featured in our Top UK PR Blogs and we spoke to Ella about the importance of credibility, learning about human psychology, and ditching PR speak. 

What’s in store for the blog in 2019?
In 2019, following a trend I started in 2018, I’m going to be speaking primarily about ‘PR and business’. If we are a strategic management function, we need to be able to articulate how and why we are impacting organisations, their bottom line and their mid to long-term objectives.  

How has PR changed since you first got into the industry?
I think we are coming out of the shadows now, both literally and figuratively. That aura of mysticism our industry was surrounded by, as well as that general perception that we are mostly spinners, are starting to disappear and be slowly replaced by accountability, responsibility, purpose and social impact.  

How much is Brexit affecting comms in the UK?
Brexit as an outcome won’t have much bearing, in my view, on the comms output of UK agencies and consultants, on the contrary. Brexit as a process, however, has been largely pursued based on image and perception, not on facts and hard figures.  

What’s the biggest issue facing the industry (outside of Brexit)?
That has to be credibility – tactical outputs are important, for sure; however, being able to fit all those tactics, tools and techniques into credible and sustainable business propositions is a different matter altogether.  

Are traditional media outlets losing their importance to the industry?
It depends on which side of the value chain one is. For a local/regional business, the local media bears much more importance than the national. For a listed business, Reuters and Financial Times are their shareholders’ ‘Bible’. For a multinational business, national broadcasters are as important as national ‘influencers’. There is no ‘one size fits all’.   

What’s the best campaign of 2019 so far?
It has to be Gregg’s Vegan Sausage Roll. 

What advice would you give students looking to join the PR industry?
Understand the importance of research and analysis in everything you do, read as much as you can on human psychology and get a business qualification, too.  

What’s your best pitch tips for PRs?
Leave our language at the door of the boardroom; once inside the boardroom, use theirs.  

Do you receive pitches from other PRs looking to work with you in your capacity as a blogger?
I received a couple related to product reviews. I don’t do vacuum cleaner reviews, nor do I write about pottery. I’m happy to work with my peers in positioning and articulating their strategic offering, collaborating on sector-specific thought leadership pieces and market entries etc. I found it very disconcerting that those who got in touch with me didn’t take the time to actually check whether I have any ‘influence’ on the vacuum cleaner market or whether I wrote anything about which ceramic pot works best with an electric hob… 

What other blogs do you read?
Stephen Waddington’s, Stephen Davies’, Scott Guthrie’s, PR Place (edited by Richard Bailey), CIPR Influence’s, Comms2Point0’s and many others. I like reading ‘heavy’ blogs, those blogs that once you read make you (re)consider what you know, what you’ve learnt, what you can do better etc.  

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Forward planning

5 ways to get the most out of Forward Features

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Forward features are a great way to plan your campaigns and content throughout the year. Outlets across the media landscape use forward features to request PR materials and content, so they can provide a simple route to securing earned media coverage.

The Vuelio Media Database already has tens of thousands of forward features for 2019 and more are being added every day. They typically include brief descriptions, submission deadlines and dates of publication.

Our latest white paper, Get Ahead With Forward Planning, covers a range of forward planning activities in comms, including these five simple rules for getting the most out of forward features, saving you research and pitching time and ultimately helping you meet your goals.

1. Be specific
The Vuelio Media Database allows you to find upcoming features by keyword but broad terms, such as ‘IT’ or ‘technology’, can be applicable to a number of different industries. Work out what unique keywords match your aims and identify and remove irrelevant categories from your search.

2. Research the relevance of media outlets
You can further refine your results by taking a closer look at the media outlets each forward feature comes from. Profile information allows you to get a better idea of how a media outlet may be appropriate to your brand and campaign. Only target the outlets that are consistent with your campaign’s objectives.

3. Prioritise the list
You may be surprised at how many relevant opportunities you find, particularly in the B2B sector. By identifying the opportunities that have the most worth to your campaign and making these a priority, you will be able to manage your leads more effectively.

4. Diarise the opportunities
Journalists are often working to strict deadlines. We give the same advice for PRs receiving enquiries through the Journalist Enquiry Service – making sure that you have the right information for the right journalist at the right time can be the difference between getting coverage and missing out. Also be aware that deadline dates could be months before the issue date.

5. Pitch your idea well in advance
Forward features will often have a named contact that is responsible for the editorial. You can increase your chances of coverage by contacting them ahead of time to find out more about the feature and how you can contribute. It also presents you with the opportunity of pitching an idea or viewpoint for the feature they may not have considered.

Ready to access the forward features and opportunities relevant to you? Get a demo of the Vuelio Media Database today.

Theresa May

Political Headlines – May delays ‘meaningful vote’ and considers Brexit extension

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Today’s political headlines include May delaying the meaningful vote on brexit until 12 March and considering a Brexit extension, EU officials exploring the delay of Brexit until 2021 and growing support for postponing Brexit. 

May delays Brexit ‘meaningful vote’ until 12 March
The Times reports that Theresa May has said that she will not put an amended Brexit agreement to the Commons this week, setting a new deadline of 12 March. The paper claims that this means that she will now spend the week ‘separately attempting’ to prevent Cabinet ministers from resigning ahead of Wednesday’s Brexit motion, with some calling on her to rule out a no-deal Brexit in a statement to the Commons.

May considers Brexit extension
The Daily Telegraph claims that Theresa May is considering plans to delay Brexit by up to two months. It is one of three scenarios drawn up by Downing Street in an attempt to stave off ministerial resignations this week and prevent a rebellion in support of amendments backing such an extension. The others include a meaningful vote on the deal, which she has ruled out, and a conditional vote on plans drawn up by the Attorney General Geoffrey Cox to time-limit the Irish backstop. May has resisted calls to sack Amber Rudd, David Gauke and Greg Clark, who indicated at the weekend they could support attempts to delay Brexit.

EU officials explore delaying Brexit until 2021
The Guardian says that the EU’s ‘most senior officials’ are exploring plans which would significantly extend the Brexit negotiation period, delaying Brexit until 2021. This would allow the two sides to develop their future relationship and thus make the Irish backstop redundant. The EU does not want to offer a short extension and then find the issue being revisited in the summer, creating what one diplomat called a ‘rolling cliff-edge’.

Support for postponing Brexit grows
According to the Financial Times, support is growing for parliamentary amendments to extend Brexit talks. Yvette Cooper and Sir Oliver Letwin are proposing an amendment that would empower Parliament if there was no agreed deal by March 13, allowing it to request an extension, while the leaders of the Brexit Delivery Group of Tory MPs, Andrew Percy and Simon Hart are proposing to extend negotiations until the European elections in May.

May says she wants to deliver her ‘domestic agenda’
The Sun reports that Theresa May told reporters, when asked if she was planning to resign in the summer as some ministers have demanded, that ‘there is still a domestic agenda that I want to get on with’. She also denied accusations from Anna Soubry that she ‘had a problem with immigration’, adding that it ‘has overall been good for the UK.’

Ministers plan no-deal Brexit ‘hardship fund’
The Times has obtained a document from the cabinet committee responsible for no-deal Brexit preparations that shows ministers are planning a ‘hardship fund’ for those affected, will use ‘tax and benefits policy’ to offset price rises and will tackle food shortages.

Watson says Corbyn should lead efforts to tackle antisemitism
The Guardian reports that Labour’s deputy leader Tom Watson used an interview with Andrew Marr to call on Jeremy Corbyn to lead efforts to tackle antisemitism in Labour, describing it as ‘a crisis for the soul of the Labour Party’. The paper has seen a dossier of complaints made by Labour MPs to Watson including details of members’ antisemitic tweets.

Field calls for Spring Statement benefits ‘rescue package’
The Daily Mirror says that Commons Work and Pensions Committee Chair Frank Field has called for the Chancellor to use the Spring Statement to deliver a ‘rescue package’ to low income families affected by benefit caps and freezes, which he said had a ‘devastating’ effect on the poorest families in the country.

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Connects Agency

Connects agency launches #VerifiedViews video and podcast series

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London influencer marketing agency Connects is providing an unadulterated look into the stories of top influencers in its new video and podcast series #VerifiedViews.

Aiming to provide a unique view of what it’s like to be an influencer, through honest and open interviews, #VerifiedViews follows the mantra of ‘No scripts, no agenda, no #Spon’.

Content is available as a shorter form 10 minute IGTV video series, alongside longer-form full podcasts of around 30 minutes.

The first episode features The Mac Twins opening up about life on Love Island, being female DJs in a male-dominated industry and how they are seeking to improve the nation’s gut health. Viewers can expect open, honest, unfiltered views from Lisa and Alana as they discuss how they feel the responsibility to use their influence to drive positive change.

Watch here: #VerifiedViews Ep #1 The Mac Twins on IGTV

Listen here: #VerifiedViews Ep #1 The Mac Twins podcast

The second instalment includes Edd Kimber (The Boy Who Bakes) discussing his experiences of being trolled online, coming out as gay, and what life has been like since winning The Great British Bake Off. Edd ends by offering positive and helpful tips on how to remain true to yourself and build a lasting career in social media.

Watch here: #VerifiedViews Ep #2 Edd Kimber IGTV

Listen here: #VerifiedViews Ed #2 Edd Kimber podcast

Commenting on the launch of #VerifiedViews, Connects founder and managing director Sedge Beswick said: ‘At Connects we’re constantly looking to push the boundaries of influencer marketing, blur the lines between content and real life. Working with some of our friends from our network of social media influencers, we’re excited to bring to light these influencers’ lives with behind-the-scenes access to find out what it’s like to be an influencer and what makes their views verified. We’re hopeful #VerifiedViews will be a platform for sharing these positive and impactful stories for all to hear.’

James Preece blog

Dating Blogger Spotlight: James Preece

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James Preece is a leading dating expert and dating coach, and his blog is featured in our Top 10 UK Relationship and Dating Blogs. James has been working in the industry for over a decade and is involved in a wide variety of different areas, such as personal dating coaching, online dating, singles events and consulting for many dating companies. He is a very experienced relationship expert and has helped tens of thousands of men and women find love, build confidence and improve their relationships. We asked James for his dating tips, the recipe to a perfect date and how brands can get involved with the site.

What’s in store for the blog in 2019?
I’ve been working on some big plans for this year.  I’m creating some online courses and have written some new books, so these will be featured on my blog. I’m going to be teaming up with some other leading world-renowned dating coaches to bring joint content. Dating is always evolving so I like to stay on top. This also means much more video content!

What’s the secret to a great date?
Focus on making the other person feel special. That way you won’t have time to worry about what they think of you. People like people who like them, so pay them some compliments and find out what they are passionate about. Oh and don’t be too picky if there’s any chance things might work. Chemistry is often something that develops between dates rather than during them. It’s when you are thinking about what they are up to and looking forward to seeing them again.  You know you’ve had a good date when you are still smiling a few days later.  

What are your dating no-nos?
The language you use gives away so much information. If you use negative language and talk about negative topics (Brexit, your horrible job, bad dating history etc) then you’ll be associated with these things. Instead, focus on only saying positive things. This could be future dreams, ambitions, holidays planned or life achievements. That way you’ll be viewed as a happy, positive person worth getting to know.  

How does Valentine’s Day affect your content?
Valentine’s Day is always a key time for me as a dating expert. Every brand wants to push a Valentine’s story and I’ve been getting feature requests since November! This year I focused on promoting some great singles events by an upcoming brand called My Friend Charlie. I thought they were of great interest to all my single readers. 

What’s your idea of the perfect date?
The perfect date is around 90 minutes long – at least for the first one. That’s long enough to find out if you like each other but also short enough to leave something for next time. Drinks are your best bet rather than dinner as it’s more relaxed. Avoid going to the cinema or theatre for your first meeting. Do you really want to get stuck in the dark with 400 other strangers? End with a peck on the lips as that signals you are into them.  

How has the rise of dating apps changed the dating scene?
They definitely have – and that’s not always a good thing. While dating apps can allow people to get matches very quickly, it’s also made it so much harder to make a real connection. We’ve become fussier than ever and we are making judgements based purely on one photo. My dating coaching clients are coming to me more and more because they are frustrated. I teach people to try a bit of everything – online dating, singles events, approaching people they like. If you focus on what you’d like and take action you’ll soon get it. 

How do you work with brands for the blog?
I often get approached to feature brands on my blog, but I have to be very selective about what will appear.  If it’s not a good fit then I have to say no. For those that would be interesting to my audience, then I work out a detailed promotional plan. I like to give them a good return for their investment.

What’s the best collaboration you’ve worked on?
I worked with a Universal Pictures a little while ago to promote a film they were featuring. I got to advertise a competition on my blog which had a prize of a celebrity dating seminar I was running. I had so much interest and the event was amazing. 

What other blogs do you read?
I absolutely love reading anything from Naomi Narrative and Hey Saturday. Both are very experienced in this industry and are constantly thinking up new ideas and content. They’ve kept going while many other dating bloggers have long gone. 

 
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Brexit chess

Political Headlines – Tory ministers will revolt to support Brexit delay and more Labour MPs could defect

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Today’s political headlines include Tory ministers and backbenchers warn they’ll revolt, more Labour MPs will defect if Corbyn doesn’t back second referendum and the Tories who want Umunna to lead Independent Group. 

Tory ministers and backbenchers warn they’ll revolt to support Brexit delay
The Guardian reports that up to 25 ministers may vote for a delay to Brexit next week unless Theresa May rules out a no-deal Brexit. They would not offer to resign, which would force May to decide on whether or not to sack them. The Daily Telegraph has obtained a leaked letter in which the 100-strong Brexit Delivery Group of moderate Conservative MPs has warned the Prime Minister that they are prepared to vote to delay Brexit if she doesn’t secure a deal, calling for a free vote on next week’s backbench amendment on a delay.

More Labour MPs will defect if Corbyn doesn’t back second referendum
According to The Times Jeremy Corbyn’s office has been wanted that dozens of Labour MPs could defect to the Independent Group unless he backs plans for a second referendum, including shadow ministers. They are calling on him to back an amendment to next week’s Brexit motion tabled by Peter Kyle and Phil Wilson which calls for such a vote.

Umunna should lead Independent Group, Tory defectors say
The Daily Telegraph claims that two of the Conservative defectors to the Independent Group, Heidi Allen and Anna Soubry, have insisted that Chuka Ummuna should lead the group. Allen told the paper that he would get ‘the best’ out of the group, although further defections could change that. She also insisted the group wouldn’t become ‘a home for waifs and strays’ by admitting MPs who left Labour in controversial circumstances.

Minister backs ban on selling scratchcards to 16 and 17 year olds
The Sun reports that Sports Minister Mims Davies has suggested that the Government will act ‘soon’ to ban the sale of scratchcards to 16 and 17 year olds, as well as restricting betting and alcohol brands from advertising on football strips. She insists that the move is ‘not to stop people having fun’ but to protect the ‘most vulnerable’.

Juncker ‘not very optimistic’ about Brexit deal chances
The Daily Telegraph says that the EU has rejected a proposal from the Attorney General, Geoffrey Cox, which would have allowed the UK to leave the backstop without the EU’s consent. European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker admitted he was ‘not very optimistic’ about the chances of a deal, adding that he was suffering from ‘Brexit fatigue’.

Prosecutions fall to lowest level ever recorded
The Times reports that prosecutions have fallen to their lowest number since records began nearly 50 years ago, despite increases in recorded crime. Victims’ rights campaigner Harry Fletcher told the paper that the fall was ‘clearly linked to cuts’, accusing the Government of damaging the ‘criminal justice system at every stage’.

Joan Ryan reported by Labour for alleged data protection breach
The Guardian says that Joan Ryan has been reported to the Information Commissioner by the Labour Party for accessing party systems after her defection to the Independent Group, a claim which she denies. As a result the party shut down access to two key campaigning tools yesterday.

Trade deals with Japan and Turkey won’t roll over
The Financial Times reports that the Government has confirmed that trade deals with Turkey and Japan will not be rolled over on exit day in the event of a no-deal Brexit, leading to the immediate imposition of tariffs. It also confirmed that it is still in talks with most of the 71 countries covered by EU trade agreements

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Rachel Miller

Blogger Spotlight: Rachel Miller, All Things IC

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Rachel Miller is the creator of the award-winning All Things IC blog, specialising in advice for anyone working in internal comms. All Things IC was recently ranked in the Top 10 UK PR Blogs, so we caught up with Rachel to discuss changes to the industry, the importance of research when pitching to bloggers, and why the Greggs vegan sausage roll campaign worked so well. 

What’s in store for the blog in 2019?
My All Things IC blog turns 10-years-old in March 2019. To mark the occasion, I’ll be highlighting some of the forgotten gems that I published years ago, dusting them off and seeing what’s changed since they first appeared. I’ve published 1,250 articles, so there’s a lot to choose from! I’m also working on online masterclasses to bring my blog content and consultancy work to life through a new medium for internal communicators.

How has PR changed since you first got into the industry?
I started my career as a Journalist in 1999 and moved into Internal Communication in 2003. PR and comms has changed a lot in that time. The fundamental principles of good, effective communication haven’t, but the methods and media have. For example, there was only one computer with internet access in the newsroom when I was a journalist and it was incredibly slow. I started my blog in 2009 to help me research how social media could be used for internal communication. There were only two case studies globally I could refer to in my post-graduate diploma in Internal Communication Management dissertation back then. Ten years on, I’d be spoilt for choice!

How much is Brexit affecting comms in the UK?
Many of my clients are spending a lot of time trying to provide clarity and create clear instructions for their employees around Brexit. Looking for certainties when everything seems uncertain and unclear is frustrating. A lot of time, money and effort is being spent trying to plan for every eventuality.   

What’s the biggest issue facing the industry (outside of Brexit)?
The biggest issue facing the industry is keeping up with the pace of change. Although the fundamentals of comms haven’t changed, the pace of technology and speed of communication has. This has resulted in an ‘always-on’ mentality which is having a detrimental effect on the mental health and wellbeing of many comms professionals.  

Are traditional media outlets losing their importance to the industry?
No, I think there will always be a place for traditional media outlets. Importance is relative to status, as long as people value something they will continue to choose it. We have such a rich variety of media to choose from, I think it’s healthy to have a mix of traditional and modern.  

What’s the best campaign of 2019 so far?
The Greggs vegan sausage roll launch. I thought the white boxes sent to Journalists, Apple style, and hype around it was fascinating to observe. I read yesterday that their sales climbed 10% in seven weeks, so they’re clearly on the right tracks.  

What advice would you give students looking to join the PR industry?
Go for it! Build your network and work on being known and communicating your personal brand (who you are and what you’re known for/want to be known for). Start writing using your own blog, create articles on LinkedIn and offer to guest blog on established blogs to build your presence.  

What’s your best pitch tips for PRs?
Make sure you’ve read/heard/watched whatever you are pitching to. It stands out a mile if you haven’t done your homework. Tailor each pitch and demonstrate why you’re a good fit. 

Do you receive pitches from other PRs looking to work with you in your capacity as a blogger?
Yes, daily. The best ones have done some research, they’ve looked at the content I’ve published, spotted a gap and sent me a relevant message. I have guest article guidelines and it’s obvious when they haven’t read them. I prioritise publishing internal communicators sharing their stories, I’ve published around 300 of these articles and that’s what my readers are interested in. I say no to pitches 90% of the time because they are from agencies wanting to use my blog for their own gains, rather than thinking about how they could add value to my readers.  

What other blogs do you read?
So many! I enjoy the weekly round-up from PR Place, edited by Richard Bailey, as it helps me uncover new voices in the PR world. I like to support those who are just starting out by reading and sharing their posts to encourage them.
 
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MK 2019

PR Blogger Spotlight: Marcel Klebba, MK

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Marcel Klebba, or MK to those in the know, is a rising star in the PR industry, with his award-winning blog that has once again been named in the Top 10 UK PR Blogs. A master networker in the industry, MK’s blog features interviews with leading comms voices as well as posts following his career and experience of PR.

We caught up with MK to find out what advice he has for PR students, why he’s launching ‘Comms School’ with Stephen Waddington and what PR blogs are on his reading list.

What’s in store for the blog in 2019?
I’m running a marathon*. Promise I won’t be trying to top your top fitness bloggers list, but there might be a few updates on how my training is going and a few lessons that this journey teaches me. But I’ll be also exploring the fascinating world of communications, building networks and succeeding in careers.

What’s the biggest issue facing the industry (outside of Brexit)?
Fake news. Not a new phenomenon but more amplified than ever. Comms professionals need to be aware of it and act upon it.

Are traditional media outlets losing their importance to the industry?
No. Some of our target audiences will be still reading press and will treat it as the most reliable source of information. Personally, I couldn’t live without having a flick through The Economist each Friday and City AM each morning (both in print, of course!).

What’s the best campaign of 2019 so far?
Aren’t we still in February, though?! I was really impressed with how WWF used the #10YearChallenge trend on social media to raise awareness about plastic pollution and global warming.

What advice would you give students looking to join the PR industry?
Start blogging and create a network. Stephen Waddington and I recently started a community called Comms School, which aims to help students get ahead. Blogging helps you explore a plethora of subjects, makes writing a habit and, most importantly, helps you connect with some brilliant people.

What are your best pitch tips for PRs?
Know the outlet you’re pitching to. Do your research. Make the pitch short and snappy.

What other blogs do you read?
There are a few solid ones in PR community. I’ve always read Stephen Waddington’s blog; work from Ella Minty is always thoughtful and engaging; Scott Guthrie always teaches me something new about influencers, and there’s many more.

I shouldn’t forget those who are still students or only recently graduated, just like me. Jessica Pardoe does amazingly well, and I’ve also started following some other luminaries including Beth Smith, and Ulster PR students who are running their community blog. My Friday mornings wouldn’t be the same without PR Place, edited by Richard Bailey, and its regular roundup ‘This week in PR’.

Metia, where I work, also runs a resourceful blog, full of insights into the world of marketing, that I read regularly, too.

 

*You can sponsor MK’s marathon run here.
 
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David Cameron

Political Headlines – Cameron’s failed intervention and May’s Brexit warning

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Today’s political headlines include Cameron urging the Tories to remain before they defected, May warning that time is running out on Brexit talks and Gove and Hammond clashing over Brexit preparations. 

Cameron urged defecting Tories to remain
The Times reveals that David Cameron sent a text message to the three Conservative MPs who defected to the Independent Group yesterday urging them to stay. The MPs – Heidi Allen, Anna Soubry and Dr Sarah Wollaston – warned that the Conservatives had been taken over by hard Brexiteers. The new group will meet on Monday to decide their leadership and begin hiring staff, having already received ‘thousands of donations’ according to the paper.

May warns that time is running out in Brexit talks
The BBC reports that Theresa May claimed that progress had been made in Brexit talks with European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker yesterday, but warned that ‘time is of the essence’. Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said that the ‘critical thing’ was enabling Attorney General Geoffrey Cox to change his advice about the backstop to MPs.

Gove and Hammond clash over Brexit preparations
According to The Daily Telegraph, Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Secretary Michael Gove used a meeting of a Cabinet sub-committee yesterday to accuse Chancellor Philip Hammond of damaging preparations for a no-deal Brexit by not releasing funding early enough. Gove and Hammond are also currently disagreeing on whether to impose tariffs on agricultural goods in a no-deal Brexit scenario.

Retailers warn of no-deal Brexit impact on food supplies
The Guardian says that bodies representing retailers in the UK and Ireland have warned that a no-deal Brexit could lead to tariffs of 40% or over being imposed on foods including beef and cheddar cheese, forcing up prices in shops. There could also be shortages of fresh produce caused by delays at borders.

Government’s climate advisors call for gas boilers and cookers to be banned
The Times reports that a new report by the Committee on Climate Change, which advises the Government, calls for gas boilers and cookers to be banned in new homes within six years so that the UK will meet legally-binding emissions targets. The proposals has been criticised by the Home Builders Federation, which warns that it would make homes harder to sell, adding that alternatives need to be ‘suitably attractive, available and efficient’.

Wright to warn Zuckerberg over online harms
The Daily Telegraph says that the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Secretary, Jeremy Wright, is to call on Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg to demand more action on online harms, warning him that ‘the era of self-regulation is over’. The paper adds that a white paper on new laws to regulate social media is ‘just weeks away’.

MPs call for reforms to save the high street
The Financial Times carries details of a new report by the Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee that recommends making ‘wide reforms’ to business rates and planning rules in order to allow high streets and town centres to succeed. It also recommends a levy on online retail sales and ‘green taxes’ on deliveries and packaging.

Bangladesh says Begum is not one of their citizens
The Guardian reports that Bangladesh has denied that Shamima Begum is a Bangladeshi citizen following the decision by Home Secretary Sajid Javid to remove the teenager’s British citizenship, claiming that there ‘is no question of her being allowed’ into the country. Javid continues to insist that he ‘would never make any decision that would make an individual stateless’, adding that his decision had not affected Begum’s baby son.

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Sarah Hall, Sarah Hall Consulting

PR Blogger Spotlight: Sarah Hall, Sarah Hall Consulting

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Sarah Hall covers a huge range of PR industry subjects on on her Sarah Hall Consulting blog. With a breadth of consultancy experience, and as a former President of the CIPR, Sarah brings unique knowledge and advice for anyone in PR. Sarah Hall Consulting is featured on the Top 10 UK PR Blogs and we spoke to Sarah about changes to the industry, her favourite recent campaign and the biggest issue in the industry at the moment.

What’s in store for the blog in 2019?
There’ll be more management and leadership content as I look at how organisations can articulate their purpose and improve their performance in order to drive profile and profits. Good reputation hinges on good business so I’ll be talking much more about that. 

How has PR changed since you first got into the industry?
PR has radically changed since I started in PR nearly 20 years ago. Much of the entry role has been automated (we’ll see more of this) and the lines between disciplines have blurred. Influencer relations was always a big part of our work but the paid element has grown exponentially and falls under our remit, whereas it might not have done so before.  

How much is Brexit affecting comms in the UK?
Whether we like it or not, Brexit offers a great opportunity for strategic PR professionals. Our role is to help organisations navigate change but to do this you need the appropriate training and qualifications. It’s why I’ve been talking about public relations as a management function via my #FuturePRoof community and latterly via the CIPR to encourage practitioners to upskill accordingly.  

What’s the biggest issue facing the industry (outside of Brexit)?
A huge issue is social mobility in public relations. We talk a lot about diversity and inclusivity but there has been very little change in recent years and the problem is getting increasingly acute. While there are some schemes helping those from more disadvantaged backgrounds to get into PR, there is not much help for those already in employment, which is why I’m setting up a charity called Socially Mobile later this year, which will provide educational grants to help people increase their earning potential. Watch this space! 

Are traditional media outlets losing their importance to the industry?
Traditional media outlets have an important role to play in society (not least in holding power to account) and therefore have an important role for anyone in PR. A healthy eco-system relies on public relations and media working hand-in-hand and I hope together we can find a way to drive a resurgence in regional media, which continues to struggle.  

What’s the best campaign of 2019 so far?
Can I cheat and go back to 2018? I’m still obsessed with the Childish Gambino song, ‘This is America’ which drew global attention to racism and gun crime in the US. Brilliantly creative, it’s a cultural phenomenon. We need more campaigns that cut through in this way. Right now it feels like everything is getting lost in Brexit.  

What advice would you give students looking to join the PR industry?
Start with the Global Alliance Capability Framework. Benchmark yourself against this as you move through your career. Make sure your lecturers and employers are aware of it if they’re not already and remember CPD is a joint responsibility. It’s up to you to focus on your own progression as much as your boss.   

What’s your best pitch tips for PRs?
Always start with what’s in it for them, whether you’re speaking to a prospective employer, client or journalist.  

Do you receive pitches from other PRs looking to work with you in your capacity as a blogger?
Yes, mainly on the #FuturePRoof site. 

What other blogs do you read?
Wadds.co.uk (a relationship break up would ensue if I didn’t); www.stuartbruce.biz; www.paulsutton.co; www.ellaminty.com and www.aura-pr.com. To be honest I pick up and read a wide variety of content as it’s served to me on Twitter so this is only a small reflection.  

 
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Joan Ryan

Political Headlines – Ryan quits Labour and Javid strips ISIS bride’s citizenship

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Today’s political headlines include Ryan quitting the Labour party, Shamina Begum’s family to sue the Home Office, Independent Group to announce first Tory defector within days and May to visit Brussels for Brexit talks. 

Ryan quits Labour citing antisemitism
The Times reports that Joan Ryan has now also resigned from the Labour Party to join the Independent Group. In an interview with the paper, she accused Jeremy Corbyn of ‘presiding over a culture of antisemitism and hatred of Israel’, adding that she couldn’t ‘be part of a party that allows racism to flourish’. Labour MP Ruth George has apologised after suggesting that it was ‘possible’ that the new group was being supported by Israel.

ISIS runaway’s family to sue Home Office over loss of citizenship
The Daily Mail reports that the family of Shamina Begum, who fled the UK to join ISIS, are to take the Home Office to court after Home Secretary Sajid Javid said he would remove her British citizenship. While being left stateless is illegal, the Government believes that as Begum’s mother was born in Bangladesh, she also has Bangladeshi citizenship.

Independent Group hopes to announce first Tory defector ‘within days’
According to The Sun, the Independent Group hopes to unveil their first defector from the Conservatives ‘within days’, with talks taking place between Chuka Umunna, Chris Leslie and Tory backbenchers. It adds that either Heidi Allen or Sarah Wollaston might announce their defection before Prime Minister’s Questions today.

May to visit Brussels for Brexit talks
The BBC reports that the Prime Minister is to visit Brussels today for continued Brexit negotiations, where she is expected to request a legally-binding assurance that the Irish backstop will not be indefinite. European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker has warned that a ‘breakthrough’ should not be expected. The Times adds that Theresa May has told Brexiteers that the so-called ‘Malthouse compromise’ cannot be negotiated in time for 29 March, but that both sides had established a taskforce to work on it after the UK had left the EU, although she did not promise that it would be legally binding.

Brexit vote may be brought forward to next week
The Daily Telegraph suggests that Theresa May will bring forward the meaningful vote on her Brexit deal to next week, following revisions being approved by EU leaders at a summit in Egypt this weekend, allowing her to avoid mass resignations from ministers who want Brexit to be delayed if a deal is not reached.

Major warns that ‘extremists’ are manipulating both main parties
The Daily Telegraph says that Sir John Major has warned that moderate members of both the Conservatives and Labour are being sidelined while the parties are ‘manipulated’ by extreme fringes such as the European Research Group, which he described as a ‘party within a party’. However, he also argued against establishing a new centrist party.

Report shows Universal Credit will boost incomes for almost 4m people
In an exclusive, The Sun reports that Work and Pensions Secretary Amber Rudd has welcomed a report from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation which shows that 3.9m working people will see their incomes increase by an average of £3,400 a year under Universal Credit. However, the report also shows that 1.7m people will be an average of £2,500 a year worse off, with Rudd promising to ‘continue to make improvements to the system’.

Thinktank warns against Huawei
The Financial Times carries details of a new report by the Royal United Services Institute which warns that permitting Huawei to equip the UK’s future 5G mobile networks would be ‘naïve’ and ‘irresponsible’, despite GCHQ’s National Cyber Security Centre having concluded that the risks associated with Chinese influence can be mitigated.

Another resignation with more potentially to come. Stay on top of the latest announcements with Vuelio Political Services.