NUJ responds to Tommy Robinson conviction over harassment of journalists
The NUJ has issued a statement after far right activist Tommy Robinson was found guilty of harassing two journalists working for the Daily Mail, causing fear of violence.
Robinson is reported to have hired private investigators to find the journalists’ addresses after an article was published showing him on holiday in Cyprus in 2024. He was also accused of telling one journalist, "I'm coming to get you" on a call, and sending a direct message to the other, saying: "I'll be knocking at your door.” One journalist had to leave their home, and the other was provided a close protection officer.
The union has reiterated the importance of accountability for intimidation and abuse against journalists and repeated calls for further police and government action to protect the right to report.
Laura Davison, NUJ general secretary, said:
“No journalist should be abused, harassed, or threatened simply for doing their job. Such behavior - which has become all too common - has far reaching consequences for freedom of speech and freedom of the press, and it’s right that those who perpetrate these acts are held to account.
“As the court heard in this case, the criminal behaviour of Tommy Robinson against Daily Mail journalists had a hugely detrimental personal impact, causing such fear of harm that reporters were forced to flee their home. A conviction sends the strongest message that this kind of conduct won’t be tolerated.
“As research published by the union earlier this year shows, journalists are increasingly subjected to harassment, intimidation and abuse in the course of their work. We call on police bodies and the UK government to continue taking steps to uphold the right of bona fide newsgatherers to work freely, safely, and without impediment. This includes introducing urgent anti-SLAPP provisions and stricter legislation to prohibit private entities from gathering or purchasing data on journalists.
"It’s also important that we convey to journalists that abuse must never be viewed as part of the job. They should report criminal acts against them to the police, making use of their local Journalist Safety Liaison Officer (JSLO) where appropriate. We also urge journalists - whether they are members of the union or not - to log instances of threats, intimidation, and abuse to the NUJ Journalists’ Safety Tracker to assist our campaign for improved safety.”