The Camp for Climate Action starts tomorrow at a secret location, and Notting Hill Carnival takes place as usual on the August Bank Holiday weekend.

There will be a dedicated phone line for holders of the UK Press Card – as issued by the NUJ and other organisations - who are experiencing problems on the ground.

Journalists should ring 07917 556824 to speak to a press officer who will assist them in resolving the situation.

This number will be staffed 24 hours-a-day from Wednesday 26 August. This facility is for immediate assistance not formal complaints.

The move follows tension between journalists and police at previous climate camps.

John Toner, NUJ Freelance Organiser, said: “We welcome this positive move to resolve the difficulties we have had in the past.”

Media wanting updated information or to request an interview about the policing operations for either the climate camp – dubbed Operation Bentham by Met Police - or the Notting Hill Carnival should contact the 24 Hour Press Bureau at New Scotland Yard on 020 7230 2171.

Updated information will be emailed from the press bureau as usual.

NUJ members who need legal assitance while covering the climate camp should ring the union on 020 7843 3721 or 020 7843 3713 or 07710 314593.

25/26 August 2009

---