Origins

“Tonight is all about the importance of journalism and the importance of a free press.

Democracy dies in darkness. And while I might sometimes wish that there were dimmer switches, all of you shine a light
and probe an important part of our democracy and our government – always searching, scrutinising and holding us to account.

Yours is truly vital work.”

Rt Hon Rishi Sunak MP
Prime Minister
Speaking at the Westminster Correspondents Dinner
28th September 2023

In May 1803, after crowds clamouring to hear Pitt speak on the Napoleonic Wars forced reporters from their usual seats in the Commons Chamber, Speaker Abbot ruled that part of the Public Gallery would be reserved in future for the Press.

Since then the Parliamentary Press Gallery had grown and now represents more than 300 newspaper, agency, radio and TV journalists who work at Westminster.

Most people will be familiar with the faces of Tom Bradby, Nick Robinson and Adam Boulton as they cover the news from Parliament on our televisions.

Indeed some people will know the names of the newspaper and radio correspondents who write and report the latest political news.

But how did this close relationship between Parliament and the media begin?

This website aims to give you some of those details, and also to introduce you to the life of Press Gallery members today.