Petition · Department for Culture, Media and Sport

Require news outlets to publish clear, accurate headlines

Closed 70 signatures

What the petition asks

I urge the Government to introduce regulations requiring UK news organisations to publish clear, accurate headlines that reflect article content. I think that misleading "clickbait" titles in media misrepresent articles, erode trust, and spread misinformation.
I think this would promote responsible journalism, improve transparency and support public understanding. I don't think this would limit press freedom, but would encourage responsible journalism. For example, instead of "Shocking News About John Doe," a headline like "John Doe jailed for fraud" could promote transparency.

Timeline

6 Jan 2025 Petition opened for signatures
6 Jul 2025 Closed to new signatures

Key facts

Signatures 70
Status Closed
Department Department for Culture, Media and Sport
Opened 6 Jan 2025
Closed 6 Jul 2025

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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 16 Aug 2026.