ROLE OF THE MEDIA IN AN ELECTION

Question 1

POINT - TO INFORM THE PUBLIC

Answer 1

Explain - The TV, radio and the press will write stories about party policies and campaign events that inform voters
Example - BBC held leader debates in 2021 with all major party leaders

Question 2

POINT - TO SCRUTINISE AND HOLD POLITICIANS TO ACCOUNT

Answer 2

Explain - the media will interview and ask politicians questions about their policies which they have to defend
Example - Nicola Sturgeon had to defend her decision on tackling COVID-19 while in government

Question 3

POINT - TO INFLUENCE VOTERS

Answer 3

Explain - newspapers are allowed to favour parties, they may publish stories that make some parties look good whilst criticising others, to influence voters.
Example - The Sun has supported the SNP whilst the Daily Mail has supported the Conservatives.