Story perspectives

Downing Street Cuts Press Briefings, Faces Journalist Backlash

12/19/2025

Summary

Story summary

Downing Street plans to change its press lobby system, eliminating most afternoon briefings for political journalists.
Tim Allan, the executive director of communications at Downing Street, said briefings will be replaced with occasional press conferences featuring ministers and possibly the prime minister.
Journalists criticized the move as reducing scrutiny and access.
Kemi Badenoch, a Conservative leader, promised to restore afternoon briefings if elected.

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Story summary

Downing Street plans to change its press lobby system, eliminating most afternoon briefings for political journalists.
Tim Allan, the executive director of communications at Downing Street, said briefings will be replaced with occasional press conferences featuring ministers and possibly the prime minister.
Journalists criticized the move as reducing scrutiny and access.
Kemi Badenoch, a Conservative leader, promised to restore afternoon briefings if elected.