We aim to comply with this policy and we ask you to do so also. You will find further advice here. This gives some helpful guidance.
All comments are moderated and amendments will be modified or refused at the discretion of Regulator Watch - our decisions are final. Be mindful that Google will also monitor our compliance, under US law.
Here are some other conditions of access which also covers matters above but also for example of profanity.
Regulator Watch House Rules
Moderation
Unless otherwise authorised all contributors comments are moderated by Regulator Watch. This is to enable:
i) Avoidance of spam posts (there are numerous every day);
ii) Avoidance of hacking attempts;
iii) Prevent unrelated postings;
iv) Prevent defamatory postings which may make Regulator Watch or the web host liable (see below).
Regulator Watch have the final decision on whether to permit any posting, and if you do not like it, tough!
Editing some content will be edited by Regulator Watch but this will be limited and where edited it will be made clear.
Defamation of individuals is not permitted. Reports on individuals who are in the public domain/office (supported by relevant evidence e.g. reference to press reports, public documents etc) is permitted together with opinion not likely to make cause for a claim for damages.
Defamation is not a legal concept when it comes to public agencies – public agencies cannot take legal action on comments about them, but do not confuse that with individual public servants who can take legal action.
When drafting a submission (contribution), be mindful of that distinction and the rule of no defamation of individuals.
Public Interest Immunity can apply to the release of data/documents and other material but is not a free for all ‘print what you like’ (or in press terms ‘print and be dammed’) approach.
Remember however that the MPs Allowances debacle were based on a public interest principle despite the documentation being obtained unlawfully. Remember also, however, that reporting the sexual activities of certain Formula One head was deemed as intrusive and technically unlawful. Tread carefully – herein the complexity of public interest reporting involving individuals.
Regulator Watch has no desire to become a social care equivalent of the ‘news of the screws’ or otherwise the News of the World or Sunday Sport! We try to be a little more broadsheet than tabloid.
Whistle Blowing has its place but like Public Interest Immunity, be careful.
Regulator Watch will assist in publication of whistle blowing and public interest case material but you must accept that legal considerations must be borne in mind.
There is guidance over the internet on these issues – do a Google search if you want further details.
New Content
Regulator Watch is run part time. New content is added as and when possible.
If you have suggested new content write to wiltregulatorwatch@rvirginmedia.com with suggestions and material, or links to material.
Updating Content
We will update on a regular basis, as we can.
General Content Rules
a) Profanity – within reason;
b) Racist, fascist or other similar abusive content which amounts to a hate crime will be blocked – you may also find it reported to the police;
c) Opinions about Regulator Watch or Wilt – welcome, subject to the above;
d) Comments or opinions on other contributors comments – as above.
Anonymity
Anonymity is (unless you choose not to be anonymous) is assured – you need only enter a valid email address and a name (which can be an avatar – an online as distinct from real life identity). If you have a website, you can (optional) add those details too when you want to submit a comment.
Regulator Watch will not reveal your details to anyone or give rise to any identifying information of contributors, with the following exception – that you aim to publish any data that would constitute a hate crime.
Be advised all visitors to the Regulator Watch website will be logged via their IP address indicating ISP, City location and a host of other data. This also applies to email to Regulator Watch. Note - this is normal for all websites, not just Regulator Watch. If that scares you, do not surf the internet!
Be aware when you surf the internet! You are being watched by someone and your every click of the mouse logged – this is distinct from key loggers that might steal your passwords. Regulator Watch does not do that, even if it knew how to.
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