Code of Conduct for Correspondents.
Every Rational Times correspondent agrees to these rules before a card is issued.
- Honesty. Report only what you have verified. Never invent quotes, sources or facts.
- No misuse of identity. Never use your card, title or the Rational Times name to seek favours, gifts, money, special treatment, or to pressure anyone.
- No extortion or paid news. Never accept or demand payment to publish, suppress or alter a story. This leads to immediate termination and may be reported to the police.
- Obey the law. A press card gives you no right to break the law, enter restricted areas without permission, or ignore police and safety instructions.
- Vehicle stickers. Do not display “PRESS” on a vehicle unless you are on assignment and authorised by the desk.
- Conflicts of interest. Declare any political, business or personal interest connected to a story.
- Respect. Treat sources, subjects and the public with courtesy. Take special care with victims, children and grieving families.
- Editorial control. Nothing is published in the name of Rational Times without editorial approval.
- Return of property. Your card remains the property of Rational Times. Return it on request, on expiry or when you leave.
Breaches are investigated. Cards can be suspended or revoked, and the public verification page will show the change immediately.
Last updated 31 Oct 2026