BBCcom_Content_Index_for_September_1_2021.txt
Section_3_Accuracy_Guidelines.txt
Section 11 Statistics,stars vs flames Data, Polls and Surveys Gathering Material 3.4.1 Accuracy is not simply a matter of getting facts right. Relevant opinions as well as facts may need to be weighed and considered to get at the truth. Where appropriate to the output and wherever possible, content makers should: gather material using first-hand sources check facts and statistics, identifying important caveats and limitations validate the authenticity of documentary evidence and digital material corroborate claims and allegations made by contributors weigh, interpret and contextualise claims, including statistical claims. (See guidance: Reporting Statistics; and Investigations) 3.4.2 In news and current affairs content, achieving due accuracy is more important than speed. 3.4.3 Content producers should try to witness events and gather information first hand. Where this is not possible, talk to first-hand sources and, where practicable, corroborate evidence. (See 3.4.20-3.4.23) 3.4.4 Content producers should be reluctant to rely on a single source. If they do rely on a single source, it should be credible, and a named, on-the-record source is always preferable. (See 3.4.20-3.4.23) 3.4.5 Research interviews with sources making serious allegations should, wherever practicable, be recorded. In circumstances where recording might inhibit the source, full notes should be made, preferably at the time or, if not, as soon as possible afterwards. (See 3.4.15) (See Section 7 Privacy: 7.4.30) 3.4.6 Information, facts, documents and digital material must be checked and verified to achieve due accuracy. If content producers have been unable to verify material, they should usually say so and attribute the information.
