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The Economist releases daily news podcast

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The Economist has launched a daily 20-minute global current affairs podcast called ‘The Intelligence’.

The new show has been created by host Jason Palmer, co-editor of Economist Espresso, alongside a team of eight newly hired editors and producers. Each podcast episode will be split into three parts: a news story analysis, an in-depth feature, and a lighter piece.

Tom Standage, head of digital strategy and deputy editor at The Economist said: ‘This is central to what we do and a great way to introduce the nature of our journalism to others. We absolutely believe in the power of audio.’

The new daily news podcast will sit alongside The Economist’s current set of five weekly podcasts, on topics such as tech, finance and science. According to the publisher, these existing audio shows fetched seven million average monthly listens and downloads in 2018.

The podcast will be competing in a market already well-served by the likes of the Guardian’s ‘Today in Focus’, The Financial Times’ ‘FT News’ and the BBC’s ‘Beyond Today’.

Susie Warhurst, global head of content at podcasting platform Acast said: ‘The Economist’s global outlook and tone of voice will set it apart from other daily news podcasts.’

Podcasts have grown in popularity over the last few years in the UK. According to stats from Radio Joint Audience Research (RJAR) 6.9 million adults, 13% of the adult population, listen to a podcast in an average week, up from 5.5 million in 2017.

Keep up-to-date with new podcasts, journalists and opportunities with the Vuelio Media Database. 

NHSX

NHSX – the new digital NHS organisation

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Matt Hancock has announced the creation of NHSX, a new digital transformation body within the health service. The unit will bring together multiple agencies across the health sector, including NHS Digital, the Department of Health and Social Care and NHS Improvement. It also aims to unite leaders from policy-making bodies and the digital economy, drawing on experts in tech, digital, data and cyber security.

Since moving from DCMS to Health in July 2018, Hancock has identified technological improvement within the NHS as a top priority, launching a tech vision in October 2018 and devoting a large amount of time to the issue in the recently-released Long Term Plan (LTP). The Health Secretary has frequently called on the NHS to speed up its adoption of digital services; in December 2018 he banned fax machines and in early 2019 he called for email to replace paper.

NHSX will focus on three core areas: technology to give staff more free time, increasing early diagnosis of diseases, and improving patient data-sharing across the system. The unit will set policy, secure standards across England and share best practice. NHSX aims to support the commitments made in the LTP to expand the availability of the NHS App and the NHS Digital Academy programme.

Following the announcement, the Government also published a new code of conduct for AI systems used in the NHS, which, among other things, seeks to ensure safety and privacy of data-driven technology, as well as promoting the UK as a top destination for healthtech investment. It is understood that NHSX will seek an ‘open door’ policy with the technology sector, working closely with industry to improve clinical care.

The new unit will have its own CEO reporting to the Health Secretary, NHSI and NHS England, and will work alongside wider Government functions including the Government Digital Service. NHSX will ensure that all source code is open, meaning anyone who wants to write code for the NHS can understand the current areas of need. Procurement of services will also be reformed, providing greater assistance to the NHS when buying technology.

This focus on health tech follows Hancock’s previous work as Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, which included the creation of the infamous Matt Hancock App. Commenting on the launch of NHSX, Hancock said, ‘This is just the beginning of the tech revolution, building on our Long Term Plan to create a predictive, preventative and unrivalled NHS’.

Although largely well-received by the health sector, questions still remain over the safety and security of using data-driven technology across the health service, which often deals with highly sensitive patient data. It also remains to be seen how effective the relationship between NHSX and the tech industry will be, and to what extent patients and staff will be involved in reforming digital services in the NHS.

Want to stay up-to-date with the latest political initiatives and understand what it means for you? Get Vuelio Political Services. 

PRcast PRCA podcast

PRCA launches first podcast to “cut through the crap”

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As part of its 50th-year celebrations, the PRCA has launched its first ever podcast: PRcast.

PRcast has been created as a way to share insight into the PR and communications industry, with bite-sized news stories and conversations with top practitioners. The podcast has been created in association with markettiers and shows will be hosted by PRCA’s communications and social media manager, Harry Gardiner, alongside groups manager, Isobel Arrowsmith.

Francis Ingham, director general, PRCA, said: ‘PRcast comes at a timely moment for our industry. With more fake news and miscommunication on important topics than ever, the podcast aims to cut through the crap and get to the crux of weighty issues.’

Howard Kosky, CEO and founder, markettiers, said: ‘As the official PRCA Broadcast partner we are excited to be working on this new communications channel, and hearing the insights from many of the industry’s key voices on a variety of interesting matters.’

The first episode of PRcast features guest Jim Donaldson, CEO UK and Middle East at FleishmanHillard. Throughout the show, Donaldson discusses key topics in the industry, such as Brexit, diversity, ethics and mental health. The episode also highlights how tasks in the the PR and communications industry are continually adapting to feature more strategic disciplines alongside creativity and publicity.

The first episode of PRcast is available now on all major podcasting platforms. To listen and subscribe via Spotify, click here.

Breaking News

How long does a news story last?

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Research from Google Trends, in partnership with Schema and Axios, has found that the average ‘big’ news story lasts for around seven days before the public moves on to the next crisis.

The study, based in America, used Google Trends to look at a range of news stories throughout 2018 and found that searches for events — the Hawaii false missile alert or Thailand cave rescue, for example — seemed to deteriorate after just seven days.

Axios said: ‘The news cycles for some of the biggest moments of 2018 only lasted for a median of seven days — from the very beginning of higher-than-normal interest until the Google searches fizzled out.’

Research by Cornell University also found that bad news seems to go away faster than good news, with negative news hitting hard at first then disappearing while positive stories continue to ripple over many hours. 

Public searches are not the same as how long outlets report the story for, but one certainly informs the other. We looked at some of the biggest news stories in Google Trends from last year to see how long searches lasted in the UK. 

Seaborne Freight no deal Brexit ferries
First set of searches lasted for 12 days

Brits were shocked when they heard that a company with no ships had won the ferry contract in the case of a no-deal Brexit. From the point the story was first mentioned, searches lasted 12 days as people tried to learn more about this seemingly unknown transport company. A small peak occurred more recently when the topic was back in the news again after the contract was cancelled. 

Seabourne Freight Google Trends graph

Death of journalist Jamal Khashoggi
First set of searches lasted for two months

UK Google searches for Jamal Khashoggi rose when his name hit the headlines after he disappeared at the beginning of October. Rather than coming out all in one go, the story slowly revealed more details, which was mirrored in the searches that continued at a slower rate towards the end of last year. 

Jamal Khashoggi Google Trends graph

Chequers deal
First set of searches lasted for three weeks, the second lasted for 10 weeks

No big surprise that this search team came up a few times since it featured in the political headlines on multiple occasions over the last year. The most searches came when the plan was finalised, and when it was rejected by the EU. 

Chequers deal Google Trends graph

Salisbury poisoning
Searches continued throughout the year with the first drop at around 10 weeks

A story with lots of new developments will reoccur in search terms. For the Salisbury poisoning, searches never really stopped last year, but did peak a number of times as new information and details were shared.

Salisbury poisoning Google Trends graph

Beast from the East
First set of searches lasted for five weeks

If you were anywhere in the UK in February last year it would have been hard to miss the big snow storm nicknamed the ‘Beast from the East’. Although the storm took the country hostage and was trending on Twitter for days, searches for the storm only lasted about five weeks with a little peak again this winter as new bad weather fronts were being compared to the Beast.

Beast from the East Google Trends graph

When it comes to the lifespan of a story, if the media find new developments, then people will continue to search around the story. Things that directly impact people seem to have more searches, as well as anything slightly complicated that the audience wants clarification on.

Public searches are one thing, but what about your news stories in the press? Track your news stories throughout 2019 with Vuelio Media Monitoring.

Tom Watson

Political Headlines – Watson’s warning and the five Tories poised to quit

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Today’s political headlines include Watson’s warning that more MPs will defect if Labour fails to change, the five Tories that could join the new group and Gauke’s calls to axe short prison sentences. 

Watson warns more MPs will defect if Labour fails to change
As The Guardian reports, yesterday seven Labour MPs including Luciana Berger and Chuka Umunna left the party to form a new Independent Group. Berger warned that Labour had become ‘sickeningly institutionally racist’, while Umunna claimed it was ‘time we dumped this country’s old-fashioned politics’. In the aftermath of the schism, Labour’s deputy leader Tom Watson said that he sometimes ‘no longer recognises’ his own party and called for a Cabinet reshuffle, while Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell called on the MPs to ‘do the honourable thing’ and fight by-elections.

Five Tories could join new group
According to The Daily Telegraph, a Conservative minister and four backbenchers ‘appear poised’ to join the Independent Group. The unnamed minister told the paper that the group was made up of ‘remarkably sensible people’. Other potential defectors it identifies include Anna Soubry, Sarah Wollaston, Heidi Allen and Nick Boles.

Gauke calls for short prison sentences to be axed
The Guardian reports that Justice Secretary David Gauke used a speech to call for short prison sentences to be axed, asking why the Government should ‘spend taxpayers’ money doing what we know doesn’t work, and indeed, makes us less safe?’ Instead, he suggested the use of community orders, tagging and mandatory treatment, such as for alcohol issues.

Cox and Barclay to seek changes to agreement
The Sun says that Attorney General Geoffrey Cox and Brexit Secretary Steve Barclay are to present the EU with new Brexit proposals tomorrow. Lawyers from both sides will consider what changes could be made, either to the agreement or as ‘additional promises’ to secure MPs’ support. However, the Irish Deputy Prime Minister Simon Coveney yesterday ruled out supporting even ‘keyhole surgery’ to the agreement.

Honda announces closure of Swindon plant
The Financial Times reports that Honda is to announce the closure of its Swindon plant, causing the potential loss of 3,500 jobs. Local MP Justin Tomlinson said that the decision was ‘because of global trends’ but Lib Dem leader Sir Vince Cable claimed that ‘Brexit uncertainty is weighing on the company’.

Cabinet split over Huawei
The Times says that three Cabinet ministers are ‘at odds’ over the security risk posed by the Chinese telecoms firm Huawei. The Commons Science and Technology Committee wrote to Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson and Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Secretary Jeremy Wright over a month ago, but their reply has been delayed because Williamson initially wished to write a separate more robust response.

Ministers tell May to stop threatening a no-deal Brexit
The Guardian claims that four Cabinet ministers have told Theresa May to stop using the threat of a no-deal Brexit as a negotiating tactic. Amber Rudd, Greg Clark, David Gauke and David Mundell used a meeting with the Prime Minister yesterday to claim that businesses need certainly.

Labour readmits Hatton
The Daily Mirror reports that Labour has decided to readmit Derek Hatton as a member over 30 years after he was expelled from the party for being a member of the hard-left Militant tendency. As deputy leader of Liverpool City Council, Hatton was responsible for setting an illegal budget and sending council workers redundancy notices by taxi.

Don’t miss a single announcement – Vuelio Political Services clients found out which MPs quit yesterday, as they quit.

rosie and kate pr and journo blind date

PR and Journalist ‘Blind Date’: When Taylor Herring met a lifestyle freelance journalist

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In the second of our ‘blind date’ series, we introduced freelance journalist, Rosie Mullender to Kate Bailey, senior account manager at Taylor Herring. Here’s what happened when they went for, a longer than expected, lunch last week. 

How was your lunch?
Rosie: It was great! We really hit it off, and it was interesting hearing about the PR/journalist relationship from the other side of the fence. I didn’t realise we’d overrun by over an hour until we got to the tube!

Kate: Fab – it was great to chat over the various roles she’s had, from Cosmopolitan to a number of household women’s magazines, Co-Op Food and most recently her experience as a freelancer.

Did you learn anything new about their role? If so, what?
Rosie: I was surprised by the breadth of the clients Kate deals with, from Greggs to The Apprentice. Her role involves a lot of creativity to help clients from a wide range of fields achieve their PR goals, and there’s a huge amount of overlap between PR and journalism.

Kate: Rosie worked in magazines for several years and is now a freelancer. We chatted about the freelancing world, the stories she goes for and the dos and don’ts of PRs pitching to media

Were you surprised by anything they told you about their job?
Rosie: I didn’t realise how intense things get for PRs when they’re selling in big stories (I also learnt that they call it a ‘sell-in’, which I didn’t know!). It obviously involves a lot of leg work, persistence and charm. I was also impressed by the way Taylor Herring promotes a good work-life balance – it sounds like a fun job.

Kate: I was surprised by quite how ruthless the features world could be for consumer magazines. At one point Rosie was asked to find four women who went to work naked, interview and photograph them in one day – and managed it!

If you could share one top tip from lunch what would it be?
Rosie: PRs would rather hear ‘no’ than ‘maybe’ if you’re just trying to let them down gently. It means they can focus on chasing up other leads instead of having to come back to you.

Kate: Try to make the journalist’s job as easy as possible to up your chances of being successful – pitch succinctly, offer up ideas for features, attach one image to sell the story if possible and don’t send big WeTransfers for them to download. Simple stuff but it works.

Did you disagree on anything? If so, what?
Rosie: Not that I recall, but we agreed on a lot of things! Neither PRs not journalists could do their jobs properly without each other, so it’s important to be considerate. We’re all human and trying to do a job, and I think that sometimes gets lost.

Kate: Apart from our love/hate of seafood, I think we were pretty much in agreement on most things.

If you could change one thing about PRs/journalists what would it be and why?
Rosie: I would prefer them not to piggyback onto requests for specific information with irrelevant stuff. I don’t think I’ve ever placed anything that’s only been vaguely related to a specific story I’m looking for. Although as a freelancer, I do respect the need to hustle, and it’s not a huge gripe.

Kate: A simple ‘no’ from a journalist when a story isn’t right for them can go a long way, as it allows PRs to focus attention elsewhere and reducing time spent on following up with people..

Finally, do you think you’ll stay in touch?
Rosie: I hope so! We got on well, and I think with such an interesting range of clients on Taylor Herring’s roster, I’m sure Kate and I could work together in future.

Kate: Definitely. We both work on such a broad range of stories and projects that I’m sure we’ll be able to work together in future. She was a great blind date!

 

Rosie and Kate’s ‘blind date’ took place at the Paternoster Chop House aka the First Dates restaurant! If you’re a PR or a journalist and you’d like to be set up on one of Vuelio’s professional ‘blind dates’, please email Rebecca Potts.

influencer

In defence of the influencer

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‘Influencers’ are receiving a huge amount of bad press at the moment. From the CMA’s new rules around disclosure to the Fyre Festival documentaries and Panorama’s ‘Million Pound Selfie Sell Off’, a picture is being painted of a vacuous industry intent on getting as much as it can for as little as possible. But how much of this is actually true and what does it teach us about influencer marketing?

The word influencer tells us a lot about the issue. At Vuelio, we interview bloggers – in many ways the pioneers of this industry – every week and we ask them what they like to be called. While some do say ‘influencer’ many more specifically say, ‘not influencer’, and choose blogger, vlogger, writer or content creator instead.

The Kardashian effect
‘Influencer’, though clearly just a term that means one who influences, has become synonymous with social media influence – and is often the label for people with huge, visible followings that are paid to endorse products. More specifically, Instagram is often seen as the channel of the influencer thanks, in no small part, to the Kardashians, who have grown exponentially on the platform and are known to be paid hundreds of thousands of dollars for a single post.

This has created a trickle-down effect, where mini Kardashians – typically reality TV stars – tread a similar path to fame and riches, and many now have huge Instagram followings and are paid to endorse products and brands.

While paid celebrity endorsement is nothing new, there has never been so much control given to the endorser. Advertising, and celebrities ‘being the face of’, traditionally required brands to manage the endorsement, whereas Instagram accounts are run by the celebrity, so the format of the endorsement is largely in their hands.

This has led to confused practice where some don’t seem to care about the rules but many more don’t actually understand them. And while the ASA, CAP and CMA are catching up, the speed at which this industry is growing means influencers have to work it out themselves, and then share their expertise around.

Professional content creators
Many professional content creators – bloggers and vloggers – take this very seriously. Their influence, and therefore earning potential, tends to be based on high quality content and genuine expertise. While celebrities use their star power to build an audience, content creators have built loyal followings through their knowledge, excellent writing and great media content.

The way these professional content creators work with brands and are seen by their audience plays a huge part in their ability to thrive in the industry, again because their content is directly linked to their influence. Bloggers and vloggers are now at the forefront of ethics in the influencer marketing industry – actively calling for clear rules and guidelines for everyone to follow to make it an even playing field.

This doesn’t mean that celebrities are the problem, but they are high profile and tend to be names that feature in the mainstream press. So, when one of them does something wrong – or perhaps a group are taken advantage of by a brand that should know better – they further establish the term ‘influencer’ in a negative way.

The influencers in influencer marketing are not one type of person or professional working in one way, which is why the term ‘influencer’ is so problematic. Brands – it’s time to know your influencers, why they’re influential and which type of influence is right for you.

What does this mean for PR?
The PR industry has just as much trouble deciding what an influencer is. As this PRWeek article points out, opinions vary from it being someone who has high engagement with their target audience to social media users with large followings.

Katie Hunter, social and influencer lead at Karmarama, makes a strong point – she said: ‘We definitely need to stop thinking about ‘influencers’ as YouTube celebrities, Insta-stars or a way to buy quick reach of advocacy. A lot of the coverage recently (often negative, let’s be honest) focuses on a very shallow pool of (often very famous) creator talent that certainly isn’t representative of the enormous breadth and endless possibilities open to us through influencer marketing now.’

Once brands and agencies understand the full potential of influencer marketing, and the differences between micro, macro and celebrity influencers, they can collaborate with the right creators who can help them reach their goals and tap into new, loyal audiences both ethically and effectively.

‘Influencers’ have a bad rep and it’s time for every side of the industry to come together and start painting a new picture of how diverse this industry really is, how important it is to brands and how professional it’s becoming.

If you want to work with the right influencers to reach your goals – you need the Vuelio Influencer Database.

Labour rose

Political Headlines – Labour MPs set to quit and calls for Facebook regulation

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Today’s political headlines cover the moderate MPs set to announce their departure from Labour, the call for Facebook to be regulated and the moderate Tories facing deselection. 

Moderate MPs set to announce departure from Labour
The BBC says that senior Labour sources have claimed that a small group of MPs will announce their departure from the party at an event this morning over the leadership’s handling of Brexit and antisemitism. Stephen Kinnock urged the MPs to ‘stay in and fight’. The Guardian adds that Chuka Umunna is expected to be one of those involved, while others could include Chris Leslie, Luciana Berger, Gavin Shuker, Angela Smith and Mike Gapes.

MPs allege Facebook broke laws and should be regulated
The Guardian carries details of a new report by the Commons Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee into disinformation and fake news which says that Facebook broke privacy and competition laws, and should be subject to statutory regulation. The report labels the social media firm’s executives ‘digital gangsters’, accuses chief executive Mark Zuckerberg of contempt for Parliament, claims that electoral law is not fit for purposes, and calls for an independent investigation into recent elections and referenda.

Five moderate Tories face deselection attempts
The Daily Telegraph reports that two more moderate Conservative MPs are facing deselection votes. Sir Alan Duncan and Dr Sarah Wollaston join Heidi Alexander, Dominic Grieve and Nick Boles in facing votes of no confidence from their constituency associations, in what it claims is known as the ‘purple momentum’ drive.

May ready for ‘howls of rage’ over no-deal Brexit tariffs
According to The Times, the Prime Minister is preparing for ‘howls of rage’ as ministers finalise no-deal Brexit tariffs. International Trade Secretary Liam Fox favours dropping them to zero in as many areas as possible, but other ministers want to protect producers, including farmers. Tariff details will be published next week, with a decision due on Wednesday.

Gove announces increased efforts to tackle plastic pollution
The Financial Times says that Michael Gove, the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Sectary, has increased his efforts to tackle plastic pollution, setting out plans for a new tax, standardised recycling and a bottle return scheme. However, the paper says that this is likely to ‘irritate food and drinks companies’ as they have already warned that don’t have the capacity to respond to consultations on topics other than Brexit. The Times adds that the proposals also include a levy on all clothing sold in an attempt to reduce waste.

Border security checks to be abandoned in no-deal Brexit
The Sun says that HMRC will announce a six-month ‘standstill’ this week, abandoning no-deal Brexit security and safety checks, as the Border Force is insufficiently prepared to administer these, having already said it will waive the requirement for goods declarations.

British attempts to speed-up Japanese trade deal fail
The Financial Times claims that British attempts to persuade Japan to agree to a quick trade deal after Brexit have ‘backfired’. Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt and International Trade Secretary Liam Fox wrote to their counterparts to tell them that ‘time is of the essence’. However, the Japanese found this to be a ‘high-handed approach’ and are unwilling to replicate their trade deal with the EU, instead seeking preferential terms.

Labour MP Paul Flynn dies
The BBC reports that Labour MP Paul Flynn has died at the age of 84. Flynn, who had announced that he would step down ‘as soon as possible’ in October, had been suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Jeremy Corbyn described Flynn as ‘an independent thinker who was a credit to the Labour Party’, adding that he ‘will be greatly missed’.

Does your political intelligence include moves and changes as they happen? Make sure it does with Vuelio Political Services.

Flickering Myth logo

Film Blogger Spotlight: Gary Collinson, Flickering Myth

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In the number one spot in the Top 10 Film blog ranking, Flickering Myth was created by author Gary Collinson, a fan of superheroes, Star Wars and LEGO. In this spotlight, Gary tells us all about relaunching the Flickering Myth Podcast Network, which film he is most excited about this year, and the importance of brands providing mutually beneficial content.

What’s in store for the blog in 2019?
Our main aims for 2019 really are to just to keep on improving, building and engaging with our audience, and having fun with what we do. We’ve recently relaunched our Podcast Network, and we’re currently in the process of revamping our original video content, so they are two areas we’ll be looking to grow in 2019, assuming all goes to plan!

Which film are you most excited about this year?
It has to be Avengers: Endgame. Anthony and Joe Russo have been knocking it out of the park with each of their Marvel movies, and the way they brought everything together with Avengers: Infinity War (without it feeling totally overstuffed) was exceptional. I can’t wait to see how it all ends.

How are the likes of Netflix changing the industry?
There are definitely positives and negatives to the rise of Netflix and other streaming services. Netflix is putting out a LOT of original content, and that has to be a good thing for the talent involved. It has a huge built-in audience, and doesn’t need to convince people to get up, leave the house, travel to a cinema and spend a fortune on overpriced tickets, food and drink, so it can take more of a chance on projects – some of which may never get made via the traditional route, and certainly wouldn’t get the same level of exposure. In theory, it should force the studios to raise their own game.

However, no matter how good your home cinema set-up is, there’s nothing like the theatrical experience, and with more and more streaming services popping up, it could get quite costly to keep on top of everything you want to see. Sadly, for people like me who treasure their Blu-ray and DVD collections, it also seems to be killing physical media, which is a real shame in my opinion. I miss the video shop.

Which films/stars will win the big categories at the Oscars?
Best Picture – Roma

Best Director – Alfonso Cuaron

Best Actor – Bradley Cooper

Best Actress – Olivia Coleman

Best Original Screenplay – Vice

Best Adapted Screenplay – A Star Is Born

How does awards season affect your content and planning?
Awards season doesn’t affect our content and planning too much. We cover the nominations and winners for the major awards ceremonies, and maybe offer a few predictions, reactions and op-eds along the way. We’ve also been fortunate enough to attend the British Academy Film Awards for the past few years, and so we’ll have some coverage and content going up from there on the site and our social channels.

What advice would you give PRs/brands who want to work with you?
If your products are relevant to our audience, then get in touch! But please visit the site beforehand; find out what we do, and who our audience is. We’re not a travel site, or a motoring site, or an insurance site. We’ll happily work with those clients, as long as the content is relevant to our readers and to our niche. But if you get in touch asking us if we’d like to write a feature on ‘The Ten Best Holiday Resorts in the Algarve’, you’re really just wasting your time.

What do PRs do that’s wrong?
We’ve worked with some fantastic PRs and agencies over the years, so I’d like to stress that by no means is this applicable to everyone. But, in my experience, I believe there are some agencies that expect too much, for too little in return. Sometimes, it can be a one-way street.

We’re more than happy to promote your clients’ movies or video games, share the posters, the trailers, a review, and maybe even a little more beyond that, if it is relevant to our readers. It’s what we and our audience both love after all, and we do our very best to accommodate. But we are not obligated to do so. Sometimes we have other priorities.

Occasionally, it’s also nice to receive something in return, like an interview for the movie we’ve promoted solidly for six months. Take into consideration the ROI, and the value that sites offer your clients. Of course, we fully appreciate this isn’t always possible, but a straight-up, honest rejection is always better than radio silence, or an excuse.

As I said, this certainly doesn’t apply to every agency. However, you tend to find that the agencies that expect the most – the ones that bombard us with requests, and reminders to their requests, and reminders for their reminders – are generally the ones who offer the least in return.

What other blogs do you read?
Unfortunately due to the demands of Flickering Myth I don’t get anywhere near enough time to read as many websites as I’d like. Dark Horizons has always been a great site for movie and TV news, and I also enjoy Den of Geek, The Playlist, Screen Rant, Bloody Disgusting… there’s likely a few more I’m forgetting too. As a fan of LEGO, The Brick Fan is a regular read, and Fantha Tracks is a good place to keep up to date with all things Star Wars.

Reach-the-right-influencers-with-the-Vuelio-media-database

Naomi Narrative, Naomi Lewis

Dating Blogger Spotlight: Naomi Lewis, Naomi Narrative

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Created by Naomi Lewis as a way to get things off her chest after a terrible date, Naomi Narrative is featured as one of our Top 10 Dating and Relationship blogs and focuses on all things sex, love, relationships and dating. Naomi shares why she will be posting even more about her relationship this year, why you should put away your phone during a date, and why she likes reading all about the different perspectives of dating. 

What’s in store for the blog in 2019?
This year, I’m getting personal. Of course, I’ll continue writing about all sorts in the world of dating, sex and relationships but I’ll be sharing bits and pieces about dates I’ve been on in the past – the good, the bad, and the ugly, and more about my current relationship. I think as much as it’s important to share advice and experience about dating when single, it’s equally important to share advice and experience about things that happen in a relationship. There’s too much faff on social media these days and at times, I feel people have totally unrealistic expectations of relationships – quickly forgetting that they take work, so more nitty gritty in store! 

What are your dating no-nos?
Where do I begin with a question like that? My biggest dating no-nos would be: 

  1. Don’t lie – You’ll always get found out in the end. Don’t use photos on dating apps from 20 years ago, don’t lie about your job, etc. You are who you are, and you want someone to find the you that you love. Simple. 
  2. Don’t be unhygienic – There’s nothing worse on a first date than meeting a modern man (or woman for that matter) who doesn’t seem to know how to brush their teeth or slap on a bit of deodorant. It’s not only poor hygiene, but it’s also common courtesy to keep yourself clean and fresh, not just when you’re dating!  
  3. Don’t be lazy – If you’re having a conversation, keep it going by returning a question with an answer and a question to follow, don’t continue to allow your potential partner to plan your dates and holidays. A relationship is a two-way street – you get what you give.  

How does Valentine’s Day affect your content?
As you can imagine, Valentine’s Day is a real hotspot for dating bloggers. You’re getting press releases and samples thrown at you left, right and centre. I wouldn’t say it affects my content as the bulk of my blog discusses dating, sex and relationships all year round. However, with that being said, I always feel that it’s important to remind people of the real meaning behind Valentine’s Day: it’s not about getting yourself into debt to lavish your significant other with material goods, it’s about setting aside some time and not letting life get in the way and celebrating your love for one another. Of course, I’m not saying don’t buy gifts if you like to do that, just don’t forget what it’s all about.  

What’s your idea of the perfect date?
I think the ‘perfect date’ is totally dependent on the two people involved. For instance, for two thrill-seeking go-getters, their ideas of a perfect date might be bungee jumping off a bridge in South America, whereas that’s probably my worst nightmare. I think that if the date is well thought out with the two people involved in mind – taking into consideration their likes and dislikes – alongside dedicating real, quality time to spend together (that means no phones or distractions), that could certainly be pretty perfect. Time and thought are key to showing someone that you really care. THAT’S romance.  

How has the rise of dating apps changed the dating scene?
There are an awful lot of pros and cons to dating apps. Unfortunately, dating apps have had a significantly negative impact on a lot of people – simply due to their very nature. People – both men and women – frequently describe themselves as feeling ‘disposable’. Now, with apps, there is access to so much ‘choice’ in terms of potential partners online that a lot of daters get FOMO and can’t seem to commit. However, on the flipside of that, apps allow you to meet and date people you may never have met in ‘real life’. It’s swings and roundabouts, but as long as you’re using the right apps for the right reasons – with the right attitude – they’re great. 

How do you work with brands for the blog?
I think the most successful way to work effectively with brands is to ensure your communication is spot on. Be totally clear about your requirements, and make sure they are clear about theirs. There are PRs and brands I’ve worked with on an on-going basis and the reason (I believe) it’s worked is because there has always been a clear brief from both ends, and everything’s totally transparent. With expectations and honesty from the outset, it becomes a really easy process for everyone to get what they want from a collaboration.  

What’s the best collaboration you’ve worked on?
I’m currently working with a brand called The Sway and I love it. Not just because of how we’re working together, but because of what they’re attempting to do. The Sway is a subscription box service, where every two months, you receive a pleasure package packed with products, toys, tips, hints – all based on a particular theme – which in essence, is to empower women to explore their sex lives. I adore the concept and think it’s going to be huge.  

What other blogs do you read?
I love reading other dating blogs, especially posts from Eve Greenow’s Never Settle and James Preece. Dating is something that affects everyone at every point in their lives so it’s great to be able to read about various topics and trends from differing perspectives.

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Theresa May speech

Political Headlines – new Brexit tactics after latest Commons defeat

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Today’s political headlines include the UK retreating on its demand over the backstop after the latest defeat, Cliver Lewis saying Labour will be finished if it supports the Government on Brexit, NHS England chairman describing the health service as dysfunctional and Javid to prevent the return of IS bride. 

Britain to retreat on its demand over the backstop after May suffers another Commons defeat
The Times reports that Britain will no longer attempt to renegotiate the Irish backstop issue. Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay suggested to the EU’s chief negotiator Michel Barnier during talks this week that the Government could accept legal guarantees that fell short of renegotiating the draft withdrawal treaty.

Shadow Minister says Labour will be finished if it supports the Government on Brexit
The Guardian reports that Shadow Minister for the Treasury Clive Lewis has said that the party would never be forgiven if its MPs voted to facilitate a Conservative Brexit deal.  Another shadow minister, Paul Sweeney, also backed a second referendum on the final Brexit deal for the first time on Thursday.

NHS England chairman describes the health service as dysfunctional
The Times reports that Lord Prior of Brampton has said the NHS staff suffer from ‘learned helplessness’ in a dysfunctional system. He said that targets, competition and reliance on inspectors had all led to a disjointed system and demoralised staff. Lord Prior, whose role is guiding the health service’s strategy, said that the main aim of a ten-year plan was to overcome organisational divides that had ‘riven the NHS over the last 25 years’.

Home Secretary says he will try to prevent return of IS bride
Dominating the front pages this morning is the story of a British teenager who travelled to Syria to join the Islamic State group wanting to return to the UK. Metro reports that Shamima Begun, who was 15 when she became a jihadi bride in 2015 and is now pregnant with her third child, wants to return to the UK to have access to the NHS for her baby. Sajid Javid has said he ‘will not hesitate’ to block the return of those who have supported terrorist organisations abroad. The Telegraph says Begum’s wish to return to the UK has prompted a fresh row over the treatment of returning jihadists. It reports that the United States is ‘fed up’ with what it calls the UK’s ‘soft approach’ and plans to send British IS fighters to Guantanamo Bay.

Dozens of Labour MPs vote in favour of extending Article 50
The Independent is reporting on the decision last night of 41 Labour MPs to back an SNP amendment calling for an immediate delay to Brexit. The SNP are seeking to extend Article 50 by ‘no fewer than three months’ after 29 March, with the Labour rebellion reportedly down to confusion amongst MPs over Jeremy Corbyn’s stance on delaying Brexit. Corbyn had ordered his MPs to abstain on the vote, despite Shadow Foreign Secretary Emily Thornberry saying the party backed an extension.

Over 100 MPs to holiday next week despite cancellation of recess
The Sun has revealed that over 100 MPs are planning to take holiday next week, despite the fact that their parliamentary ‘half term’ break has been cancelled by the Government in order to continue work on Brexit. MPs from all parties will be absent, with sources saying both Labour and Conservative MPs have been ‘paired off’ for votes so they can take leave. Some are claiming that the cancellation was a PR stunt, with chief whip Julian Smith saying recently that pre-planned trips or family time could still go ahead.

What’s happening with Brexit now? Don’t miss any of the action, stay up to date with Vuelio Political Services.

Phil Edwards Live for Films

Film Blogger Spotlight: Phil Edwards, Live for Films

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Phil Edwards created Live for Films to share his love of films, comics, video games and TV. Live for Films holds a place in our Top 10 Film blogs, so we spoke to Phil to find out all about which films he is excited about this year, his Oscars predictions and the importance of good communication from brands. 

What’s in store for the blog in 2019?
As always, Live for Films will be building to bigger and better things. We will be covering various Film Festivals around the World, heading off to the New York Comic Con once again and sharing the latest news, interviews and reviews for the many movies heading our way. 

Which film are you most excited about this year?
I am also a huge comic book fan so I cannot wait to see what happens in Avengers: Endgame. We have also got Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon A Time In Hollywood heading our way, which should be great. 

How are the likes of Netflix changing the industry?
Netflix and other streaming services are bringing new movies to a huge audience. That means some smaller films are getting seen by a wider range of people, but it will be having an impact on the number of people heading off to the cinema. For me, the cinema is still the best way to experience a movie. 

Which films/stars will win the big five categories at the Oscars?
Best Actor - Bradley Cooper- – A Star is Born 

Best Actress - Yalitza Aparicio – Roma 

Best Supporting Actor - Mahershala Ali – Green Book 

Best Supporting Actress - Regina King – If Beale Street Could Talk 

Best Picture - Roma 

How does awards season affect your content and planning?
It means a lot more planning ahead and keeping track of the various award presentations. There is also a lot more scope for follow up articles and interviews based around the various winners. As I am based in the UK and many take place in the US, it also means a lot of late nights! 

What advice would you give PRs/brands who want to work with you?
Send out clear, concise emails detailing their requests. Included relevant images, trailers or whatever else is needed to promote the films. 

What do PRs do that’s wrong?
After the initial request for coverage of films or invites to screenings, there is often a delay in getting the actual information or screening confirmations over until the very last minute. That can make it difficult to arrange coverage for the films being promoted. Good communication makes everything better. 

What other blogs do you read?
I read Generation Star Wars and The Studio Exec.

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Churchill

Political Headlines – May facing fresh Brexit and defeat and McDonnell calls Churchill a villain

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Today’s political headlines include May facing fresh Brexit defeat, McDonnell calling Churchill a villain, Labour frontbenchers might quit and Conservative MPs back end to indefinite immigration detention. 

May facing fresh Brexit defeat as Brexiteers object to motion
As the BBC reports, MPs will debate the next steps on Brexit later today, with the Government facing a potential defeat at the hands of Conservative Brexiteers. This is because the motion tabled by the Prime Minister backs the views expressed by MPs in their last Brexit vote, including ruling out a no-deal Brexit. The deputy chairman of the European Research Group of Eurosceptic MPs said that its members had ‘pleaded’ for the wording to be changed’ and they could not back the motion as it ‘removes our negotiating leverage’.

McDonnell calls Churchill a ‘villain’
Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell has caused controversy after he told Politico that Winston Churchill was a ‘villain’, citing his role in sending troops into the Tonypandy riots. In response, Sir Nicholas Soames, a Tory MP and Churchill’s grandson, told The Daily Telegraph that McDonnell was a ‘third-rate, Poundshop Lenin’.

Labour frontbenchers may quit if Corbyn doesn’t back referendum

The Guardian says that Jeremy Corbyn will see up to ten frontbenchers resign unless he backs a second Brexit referendum in a fortnight. However, Len McCluskey, Unite’s General Secretary has warned that stopping Brexit ‘is not the best option for our nation’ and other frontbenchers have indicated that they could not back such a policy.

Conservative MPs back end to indefinite immigration detention
The Times reports that eleven Conservative MPs have written to Home Secretary Sajid Javid demanding that immigration rules are reformed to restrict the amount of time people can be held in immigration centres to 28 days. The MPs, including David Davis, Andrew Mitchell, Dominic Grieve, Anna Soubry and Dame Caroline Spelman, claim that the current policy ‘undermines our proud traditions of justice and the rule of law’ and is ‘expensive and inefficient’.

Almost all councils plan to increase council tax
The Guardian carries the results of a survey by the Local Government Information Unit which shows that almost all councils plan to increase council tax in April, with three-quarters planning increases of over 2.75%. However, they also plan cuts to services as a result of falling funding from the Government, with 80% having no confidence that the current funding model is sustainable.

May warns BBC not to cut free TV licences
The Daily Telegraph reports that Theresa May has warned the BBC not to end free TV licences for the over-75s, using Prime Minister’s Questions to say that the Government ‘want and expect the BBC to continue free licences when they take over responsibility for the concession in 2020.’ A final decision is due by June.

Williamson attacked after Chinese cancel trade meeting
The Sun claims that a row has broken out in the Government after the Chinese Deputy Prime Minister Hu Chunhua cancelled trade talks with Chancellor Philip Hammond at which he was due to lift bans on British poultry and cosmetics, following a speech in which Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson attacked China’s military plans.

Williamson calls for gay troops to be allowed to marry at bases
In an exclusive, The Daily Telegraph says Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson has written to Women and Equalities Secretary Penny Mordaunt, calling for legislation to be changed so that gay members of the armed forces can marry at bases, describing the current situation as ‘unacceptable’.

Does the Churchill story matter or is it just distraction? Find out with Vuelio Political Services.

Eve Greenow Never Settle

Dating Blogger Spotlight: Eve Greenow, Never Settle

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Never Settle was created in 2015 by Eve Greenow and is featured as one of our Top 10 Dating and Relationship blogs. Eve shares her advice on dating no nos, what would happen on her perfect date, and how she works in partnership with brands to create mutually beneficial content. 

What’s in store for the blog in 2019?
I’m super excited for what’s in store for Never Settle in 2019.  

Going forward, I will continue tackling taboo subjects head on, which is what I’m passionate about. Whether it be mental health, contraception, sexual wellbeing, or more conventional dating subjects, I will continue to push these issues to the forefront of discussion, and take one step further. Further collaborations with brands who I feel most appropriate to send important messages to my readers, will continue, as well as pushing out my Ask Eve agony aunt section more, for those who need direct advice! I am also currently writing a self-help book, which is under wraps for now, but follows the general themes of the blog – which is really exciting…!  

What’s the secret to a great date?
Remember it’s just two people meeting, avoid putting too much pressure on yourself or the situation. Listen attentively, avoid asking too many interrogatory questions (it’s not an interview!), smile, be yourself and enjoy it! 

What are your dating no-nos?
There are so many good things which can happen on a date, but some serious no-nos would be:  

  • Don’t bitch about your ex – all bitching does is show a lack of respect – they were a big part of your life, and I don’t want to end up being referred to like that in the same way…  
  • A lack of basic hygiene is a big turn-off – make sure to shower or at least use deodorant… 
  • There’s nothing worse than someone who sneers at something you say or takes the mickey out of something you care about.  
  • Try not to brag… whether it be your job or lifestyle, or anything – it’s really not endearing!  
  • Give each other a chance: try not to come away from the date realising you know absolutely nothing about the other person because you spoke about yourself the whole time!  

How does Valentine’s Day affect your content?
Valentine’s Day for a dating and relationship blogger is huge. We get inundated with products to promote for the day, and it’s about choosing the ones we genuinely feel work. On top of this, it’s important to remember that even though it’s an integral occasion for the blog, it is just a day. And if you’re single then that’s okay too. I like to ensure my Valentine’s Day content is a mix of topics, catering for those in relationships, singletons and also including brands. I do tend to ramp things up on the blog on the lead up to Valentine’s Day.  

What’s your idea of the perfect date?
The ideal date would be just that – fun! I actually wouldn’t like going for a first date which is a dinner… I’d just spill something down myself! If you can have a laugh, and it’s not awkward, then fab! 

My favourite date is the one I had with my current boyfriend. We went geocaching, which is like treasure hunting using coordinates. It was so fun! Although because it was in the woods, I was a little apprehensive… I had my friends on standby if I didn’t come home by a certain time…! But it was great in the end and we had a real laugh.  

How has the rise of dating apps changed the dating scene?
The whole dating and relationship world has been tipped upside down.  

A lot of people have found real love via a dating app or website. Like social media, the tool of dating apps can open your eyes to people you’d never normally have the chance of meeting, as well as great for busy people. But what most will agree on is that internet dating has created the illusion of abundance. That the grass is always greener. 

We now live in a disposable society, where if something isn’t working as we want it to – we throw it away and get something newer, or so we believe – ever dissatisfied. Often finding the newer version isn’t much different from the previous one. 

When you’re on a dating app, you have literally endless amounts of people looking for love at your swiping fingertips. It is easy to believe that all of these single people are available, viable, options. The reality is, most of these people won’t be interested or compatible, however the sheer volume of singletons creates this falsehood that there are literally thousands of options out there. This warps our minds to think that our “ideal” person, with no flaws, is actually attainable. 

How do you work with brands for the blog?
I like to ensure when I work with PR agencies and brands, that it’s mutually beneficial. I don’t generally accept work with brands that aren’t relevant to my content (as it messes with the consistency of the site), but it’s about ensuring that we work as a partnership, and both of us are happy with the content. Whether it be working on a giveaway or sponsored post, or reviews, I always love working together with brands and PR agencies to push conversions, ROI and give my readers something new and fresh to discover. 

What’s the best collaboration you’ve worked on?
That is a really tough one!! I’ve worked with many brands on a whole range of products. I absolutely LOVE trying out new pleasure toys from brands like LELO, Bondara, Lovehoney,  and Ann Summers – to name a few of my favs. But I’ve also completed harder hitting campaigns such as with Lloyds Pharmacy Online Doctor, with a focus on looking after your sexual health, which is super important to me too.  

What other blogs do you read?
I love reading other blogs, it’s one of my favourite past times, and I really enjoy discovering new ones too! Some of my favourites are Naomi Narrative, Natasha Atlas, Lucy Goes Dating.

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EU Brexit

Political Headlines – Robbins’ claims and EU help

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Today’s political headlines include Robbins’ claims that MPs will be offered choice of deal or extension, EU to help May, Hancock tells doctors to use email and just six trade deals ready for Brexit. 

Robbins claims MPs will be offered choice of Brexit deal or long extension
In an exclusive, ITV News overheard the UK’s chief Brexit negotiator Olly Robbins having a conversation in a hotel bar, in which he claimed that at the end of March, MPs would be given a choice of a reworked Brexit deal or a significant delay to Brexit, despite Theresa May having claimed that the latter is not an option.

EU to help May by ‘dragging out’ Brexit agreement
The Sun claims that the EU is prepared to help Theresa May by keeping Brexit negotiations going until March and offering a last minute compromise at a summit on March 21. It could propose six-monthly reviews of the backstop and turning the political declaration on the future relationship into a legal instrument or depositing it at the UN.

Hancock to tell doctors to use email, not post
The Times says that Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock will use a speech at a conference held by NHS England to tell the health service to stop sending letters, setting 2021 as a target for email to be the default means of communication. He will warn that ‘a letter lost in the post could be the difference between life and death’, but doctors and patient representatives have warned about confidentiality and digital exclusion.

Just six trade deals ready to rollover after Brexit
The Sun has obtained leaked documents which show that just six of the 40 free trade deals which the EU has with 70 other countries are ready to rollover in a no-deal Brexit. A minister told the paper that the Government is now hoping to obtain ‘letters of understanding’ with other countries

Shadow cabinet in antisemitism argument
The BBC says that Labour’s chair Ian Lavery and deputy leader Tom Watson fell out over antisemitism at a meeting of the shadow cabinet. Watson argued in favour of suspending the Liverpool Wavertree branch of the party for ‘bullying’ its MP Luciana Berger, but Lavery claimed that this would be ‘unhelpful’. A source described the argument as ‘shouty’.

May warns business leaders extending Article 50 won’t help
According to the Financial Times, Theresa May used a phone call with business leaders to tell them that there was no reason to extend the Article 50 negotiation period, claiming that it wouldn’t end uncertainty or bring Parliament closer to agreeing a Brexit deal. One participant warned her that a no-deal Brexit would be ‘a failure of duty’. The Guardian reports that the British Chambers of Commerce have produce twenty questions about trade after Brexit which they want the Government to answer.

Home Office criticised over deportations to Zimbabwe
The Guardian says that Labour, charities and asylum lawyers are criticising the Home Office after it started working with the Zimbabwean government to increase deportations of asylum seekers to the country despite human rights abuses. Two people are believed to be due to be deported ‘within days’.

Campaigners say immigration will rise under new policy
The Daily Telegraph carries details of a new report by the anti-migration campaign group Migration Watch, which claims that the Government’s new migration policy could lead to net migration increasing by over half, reaching 300,000. It believes that a fall in immigration from the EU will be cancelled out by an increase in skilled migrants coming to the UK.

Ready for more Brexit talks? Find out what they mean for you with Vuelio Political Services.

The Cairncross Review

Industry associations respond to Cairncross Review

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The Cairncross Review details the findings of the investigation into the sustainability of journalism. The Review makes nine recommendations from a code of conduct to ‘rebalance’ the relationship between online platforms and publishers, to an ‘Institute for Public Interest News’.

The report also calls for an investigation into the online advertising market and the duopoly of Google and Facebook, a regulator for online platforms, the BBC sharing its knowledge and a range of funding and tax relief for public-interest journalism.

The CIPR has welcomed the proposal to create a new Institute for Public Interest News to protect high quality journalism and prevent the collapse of the local news industry. The Review warns that a lack of resource for investigative journalism and democracy reporting, covering discussions at local councils and magistrate courts, poses a threat to the long-term sustainability of democracy.

The recommendations suggest the new Institute could operate similarly to the Arts Council by conducting research, building partnerships with universities and improving accessibility and readership of quality online news.

On the platform regulator, the CIPR has consistently argued technology companies must take more responsibility for content appearing on their platforms. A new category that falls between ‘platform’ and ‘publisher’ would give the Government scope to consider future legislation more relevant to large tech firms.

Sarah Hall, CIPR vice president said: ‘There are two key issues here. Firstly, public relations needs a healthy press industry. As PR professionals, our ability to build successful, long-term relationships is dependent on honest and reliable communication. Newspapers and online publishers play a key role in that process and the sustainability of the press is in the interests of all PR professionals. We wholeheartedly welcome the recommendations of the Cairncross Review, including tax relief to encourage the provision of local journalism.

‘Secondly, we support calls to supervise tech companies’ efforts to identify reliable and trustworthy sources of news. These efforts are essential to tackling the challenges of disinformation and fake news. The creation of a third category beyond ‘platform’ and ‘publisher’ would lay the ground for sensible and proportionate regulation of tech firms.’

The PRCA is more cautious and while it has praised the attempt to address the problem, it calls for detailed industry consideration of the issues raised.

Francis Ingham, director general of the PRCA said: ‘The independent report represents a sustained, informed attempt to secure the future of journalism in this country. Our industry relies on a vibrant media, and therefore applauds this aim, and welcomes the platform this gives to the issue.

‘With a broad-range of recommendations, there are many notable ideas here, but some – such as the Institute for Public Interest News; its governance and funding; should make us pause and give thought.

‘We owe it to journalism and to all of those involved with the media to consider not just the undeniably good intentions behind these recommendations, but all of the possible outcomes, and any possible unintended consequences. Which is why we will consult the PR and communications industry in detail before commenting further on the detailed recommendations. That consultation starts tomorrow, and we will be encouraging all of those in our industry to engage with it.’

Theresa May

Political Headlines – May tells MPs to hold their nerve as Tories are ahead in polls

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Today’s political headlines include May telling MPs to hold their nerve, Tories would get majority if a general election was held today, NSPCC calls for a new duty of care and Treasury Committee rejects Hammond’s claims. 

May to tell MPs to hold their nerve
The BBC says that Theresa May will today tell MPs that ‘we now all need to hold our nerve’ because the Brexit negotiations are at a ‘crucial stage’ and that ‘a deal that this House can support’ is still possible. The Daily Telegraph adds that May is expected to use her statement today to rule out membership of a customs union with the EU. The Sun claims that pro-EU ministers will today demand that May gives parliamentary time at the end of this month to debate a bill to extend the Article 50 talks unless progress had been made, because her promise of another vote on February 27 is not felt to be sufficient.

Tories would get majority if a general election was held today
The Times says that according to YouGov’s modelling which correctly predicted a hung parliament in 2017, the Conservatives would win a slim majority if a general election was held today, gaining four seats to give them a total of 321, while Labour would lose twelve, falling to 250/ The Liberal Democrats and the SNP would also gain four seats each.

NSPCC calls for new duty of care on social media firms
The Daily Telegraph reports that the NSPCC is to publish plans to introduce a statutory duty of care for social media firms overseen by a regulator able to issue unlimited fines if they fail to protect children from online harms. There would be a new criminal offence, based on corporate manslaughter laws, with executives held personally liable for any breaches.

Treasury Committee rejects Hammond’s ‘deal dividend’ claims
The Guardian carries details of a report by the Commons Treasury Committee which rejects Chancellor Philip Hammond’s claim of a dividend from Theresa May’s proposed Brexit deal, saying that this suggestion lacks credibility. Data published yesterday showed that GDP grew by just 0.2% in the last three months of 2018, with a decline of 0.4% in December.

Journalism review suggests restrictions on BBC, Facebook and Google
The Daily Telegraph reports the findings of a review on safeguarding quality journalism by Dame Frances Cairncross, commissioned by Theresa May. She suggests restrictions on the BBC, Facebook and Google and the creation of an institute of public interest news, which would funnel finance into the news industry. Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Secretary Jeremy Wright will now examine the recommendations.

Rudd admits link between Universal Credit and foodbank use
The Daily Mirror says that Work and Pensions Secretary Amber Rudd admitted yesterday that there was a link between the rollout of Universal Credit and increases in foodbank uses, although she claimed that the situation was improving. Her predecessor, Esther McVey, had suggested the rise was due to Labour not having let jobcentres refer people to foodbanks, while minister Alok Sharma had claimed there wasn’t a ‘single reason’ for the increase.

May to resign this summer
According to The Sun, Theresa May has dropped hints to Cabinet ministers including Liam Fox and Greg Clark that she plans to resign in the summer so that she can influence her party’s choice of successor, with a new leader being picked at the party’s conference in October. The paper suggests that this ‘will widely be seen as a plan to stop Boris Johnson.

Labour releases antisemitism statistics
The Guardian reports that Labour has released details of the scale of antisemitism allegations received by the party, which has investigated 673 complaints since last April and expelled 12 members. The statistics have been questioned by MPs such as Margaret Hodge who said that there had ‘been a breakdown in trust’. They plan to use a meeting next week to demand to know why 146 of those investigated were only given a ‘preliminary warning’.

Ready for more Brexit talks? Find out what they mean for you with Vuelio Political Services.

Tiktok

Does your PR strategy include TikTok?

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TikTok is the latest social networking site to take the world by storm with reportedly over 500 million users – a number that’s rising fast. Launched in China, the app is similar to Vine (RIP Vine) but with greater accessibility for more people to make high quality, creative videos.

TikTok bought Musical.ly in 2017 giving it a foothold outside of China; around 40% of its user base is now based outside of its home country. It makes TikTok unique in the field of successful global social networks as it is the only major platform not based in Silicon Valley and therefore questions of regulation, internal reporting and IPOs will be very different in the lifespan of TikTok to what we’re used to.

Those familiar with Vine will recognise much of TikTok – short clips (typically 15 seconds) are used to communicate, which means the platform forces creativity and the content is generally skewed towards younger users and teenagers, some of whom are already count followers in the tens of millions. TikTok has more filters and effects built in, so where Vine relied on highly skilled video makers for its best content, TikTok can make anyone seem like a video pro.

Does it work for brands?
If your brand or your clients are working with a younger audience then TikTok is a must for you to get on board with. Any means to communicate with your audience should be explored and experimented with to decide if it’s the right platform for you, but generally creative channels go hand-in-hand with creative PR.

With TikTok, there’s different ways for brands to get involved. The platform has its own memes and a huge host of challenges from the Drake-inspired #InMyFeelingsChallenge to Jimmy Fallon’s #SharpieChallenge.

Only by immersing yourself in the world of TikTok will it become clear which challenges and memes are opportunities for your brand – whether it’s joining existing ones or perhaps even starting your own (I’m sure Sharpie is very happy).

Challenges, and videos in general, are typically people-led on the platform, so brands have the opportunity to show the people side of their businesses in a fun and youth-friendly way, or make use of celebrity connections via campaigns. Again – TikTok is not going to be suitable for every brand or business.

With rising stars in the TikTok ecosystem, there’s also a huge opportunity for influencer marketing but be wary of going in too hard, the app is not a marketplace and collaborations (as with any influencer marketing) should feel authentic and fit in with the existing influencer’s output.

TikTok is also not a platform of desperate selling or poorly disguised advertising, and brands should fit in with the fun and generally upbeat vibes of the platform and not try to dominate the conversation. (If you were at your infant niece’s birthday party, you wouldn’t try to dominate the conversation among the kids – don’t do it here).

For those that do want to advertise, this is being tested on the platform but note that it seems to be easily skippable.

Ethics
There’s also ethics to consider, as there is for any social network use or influencer marketing practice. Alongside the topics I’m sure you’ve heard discussed time and time again (disclosure, authenticity, payment) brands should also be cautious about the young user base on the platform and what it means if you’re trying to collaborate with big influencers that include young teenagers.

With the ‘responding with a video’ viral style of content on the platform, there’s also a risk of quickly losing control of anything you do on the platform and this should be considered before any major campaigns are carried out.

So, should TikTok be part of your PR strategy?
Only you can answer that, but take 15 seconds and watch a video – then waste the rest of the day watching hundreds more. Great PRs know what channels and styles fit their brand, or client’s brand, and TikTok is so distinctive that you should know in an instant.

Jeremy Corbyn

Political Headlines – May suggests talks with Corbyn and Williamson calls for ‘hard power’

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Today’s political headlines include May opening the door to Corbyn, William’s use of ‘hard power’, No-deal would mean two more years of austerity and Truss criticises Green’s use of NDAs. 

May opens door to Brexit talks with Corbyn
According to The Times, Theresa May has ‘opened the door’ to a soft Brexit by writing to Jeremy Corbyn suggesting talks on a post-Brexit customs union with the EU, despite the risk of Cabinet ministers resigning. The letter adds that her deal already offers the benefits of a custom union’, while a Number 10 source said it was ‘nonsense’ to suggest that Corbyn’s proposal was being considered. The Guardian, however, claims that the letter has ‘effectively ruled out’ Labour’s compromise proposal with the CBI warning that the UK is now ‘in the emergency zone of Brexit’.

Williamson to call for use of ‘hard power’
The BBC says that Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson will use a speech today to argue in favour of having armed forces prepared to use ‘hard power to support our interests’ with increased ‘mass and lethality’, rather than being a ‘paper tiger’. He will say that the UK must confront those who ‘flout international law’, confirm the deployment of a new aircraft carrier to the Pacific and outline a ‘very significant investment’ in cyber forces.

No-deal Brexit would mean two more years of austerity
The Financial Times reports that a new report by the Institute for Fiscal Studies warns that the UK would have to undergo two more years of austerity in order to tackle the impact of a no-deal Brexit on the public finances. The Resolution Foundation has published analysis suggesting that Brexit has led to households’ disposable income being £1500 lower than it would have been otherwise.

Truss criticises Green’s use of NDAs
The Daily Telegraph reports that the Chief Secretary to the Treasury Liz Truss said that Sir Philip Green’s use of non-disclosure agreements to tackle allegations of sexual harassment, bullying and racism was ‘morally wrong’ and ‘flouting the law’, and is pledging to ‘get changes’ to how they are used. Maria Miller, who chairs the Commons Women and Equalities Committee told the paper that she wanted Green to give evidence to her committee.

Tory backbenchers seek to ban eating dog and cat meat
The Sun says that an amendment to the new Agriculture Bill tabled by 15 backbench Tories led by Giles Watling would ban the consumption of dogs and cats to ‘send a powerful moral message to Far East countries’. The paper adds that Labour could also support the plan.

Calls for Grayling to be sacked after ferry contract scrapped
The Times reports that Downing Street has said that it has full confidence in Transport Secretary Chris Grayling, despite calls for his dismissal from Conservative MPs including Anna Soubry. At the weekend the Government cancelled plans to give a £13.8m no-deal Brexit ferry contract to Seaborne Freight, a firm with no ferries.

Thinktank warns of cost of immigration plans
The Guardian carries details of a new report by the pro-immigration thinktank Global Future  which warns that the Government’s proposed post-Brexit immigration system will cost employers £1bn in administration costs over five years, put EU students off studying in the UK, and could risk a repeat of the Windrush scandal.

Ministers revolt against HS2 costs
The Daily Mail claims that there is ‘a growing Cabinet revolt’ which threatens to axe HS2 after the cost of the project grew from £33bn to over £60bn. A source told the paper that while the final decision point had not been reached, concerns about management of the scheme was ‘continuing to grow’ and ‘opposition is mounting’.

Ready for more Brexit talks? Find out what they mean for you with Vuelio Political Services.

Mark Carney

Political Headlines – Carney’s warning and the Brexit vote

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Today’s political headlines include Carney’s warning of economic slowdown, MPs may not vote on Brexit until March, May heads to Dublin and Instagram pledges to remove self-harm images. 

Carney warns of Brexit-related economic slowdown
The Times reports that the Governor of the Bank of England, Mark Carney, has said that this year the economy will grow at the slowest rate since the financial crisis because of the ‘fog of Brexit’, with a one in four chance of a recession by the summer. According to the Financial Times, ‘Project After’, a secret group of civil servants in close contact with the Bank of England, is drawing up a plan to kick-start the economy in the event of a no-deal Brexit, including cuts to taxes and tariffs and increased investment.

MPs may not vote on Brexit deal until March
The Guardian claims that MPs may not get a chance to vote on a new Brexit deal until March, after Theresa May and European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker agreed during their talks yesterday to meet again by the end of February. This would, the paper says, but Parliament under pressure to accept the deal or face a no-deal Brexit and still require Article 50 to be extended to allow necessary legislation to be passed. The Sun adds that Number 10 is preparing to back a package of workers’ rights in a bid to secure Labour MPs’ support.

May heads to Dublin for Brexit talks
The BBC says that Theresa May is to travel to Dublin today for discussions about Brexit with the Irish Taoiseach Leo Varadkar as part of her attempt to secure legally-binding changes to the backstop. He will also be holding talks with the five main political parties in Northern Ireland earlier in the day.

Instagram pledges to remove self-harm images
The Times says that Adam Mosseri, the head of Instagram, has promised to remove all graphic self-harming images from the service following a meeting with Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock yesterday. Hancock said that he would ‘be asking other social companies to act’.

Planning overhaul needed to deliver housing targets, NAO warns
The Daily Telegraph carries details of a new report by the National Audit Office, which warns that the Government will only reach its target of building 300,000 houses every year if councils stop using outdated figures to calculate housing need. Separately a new report by the thinktank Civitas shows a sharp increase in young adults still living with their parents.

‘Death tax’ to hit 300,000 families
The Daily Mail claims that a new ‘death tax’ will hit up to 300,000 families after the Government classified an increase in fees for probate as a fee rather than a tax, allowing it to avoid full parliamentary scrutiny. Liberal Democrat leader Sir Vince Cable said this was ‘a clear abuse of executive power’.

Evening with May fetches £75,000 at Conservative ball
The Daily Mirror reports on the Conservative Party’s Black and White Ball. Among the lots auctioned to party donors were an evening with Theresa May which fetched £75,000, and a set of posters signed by her which brought in £175,000. Labour Party chair Ian Lavery said that the event was ‘stomach-churning’.

New ‘cheat proof’ expenses system to be introduced
In an exclusive, The Sun reveals that a ‘cheat proof’ expenses system for MPs will be introduced, a decade after the expenses scandal. The watchdog IPSA has announced that a new digital system will go live in April, saving £1m and also allowing claims to be verified and challenged more easily.

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