New edition of Essential Public Affairs for Journalists published

The ninth edition of Essential Public Affairs for Journalists by James Morrison has been published by Oxford University Press, in partnership with the NCTJ.

A long-established core text for NCTJ-accredited courses and beyond, the latest edition has been fully revised to reflect constitutional and policy changes introduced by the recently elected Labour government.

It includes updates on significant reforms to regional devolution, local government structures, the NHS, prisons, employment rights, public transport, and town and country planning.

Designed to complement the NCTJ’s public affairs syllabus, the book offers accessible, engaging and authoritative coverage of the UK’s governing institutions, providing essential context for journalists covering public life.

Author James Morrison said: “As might be expected, this edition marks one of those periodic bigger ‘rewrites’, as the book battles to take in the slew of new initiatives and legislation that inevitably follows the election of any new majority government.”

The new edition includes reflections on policy controversies such as the Assisted Dying Bill and the backlash against the Winter Fuel Allowance and tax-raising autumn 2024 Budget.

The book has received high praise from leading journalists. Chris Mason, political editor of the BBC, said: “Blimey! I could have done with this book about 20 years ago. A wholesome and comprehensive canter around every limb and funnybone of the state.”

Other endorsements have come from Kevin Maguire (Daily Mirror), Justin Webb (BBC Today Programme), and Alex Crawford (Sky News), who commended the book’s clarity, ambition and practical value for journalists covering public affairs.

Joanne Forbes, chief executive of the NCTJ, said: “Essential Public Affairs for Journalists continues to be an invaluable resource for both students and journalists, providing the essential knowledge and understanding needed to report on public life with confidence and integrity. We’re proud to continue our long-standing partnership with Oxford University Press on this important title, and we congratulate James on another fantastic edition.”

Essential Public Affairs for Journalists is available to purchase from the NCTJ at the discounted price of £30.50 (RRP £32.99). Click here to order your copy.