Gathering material
We should try to witness events and gather information first hand. Where this is not possible, we should talk to first hand sources and, where necessary, corroborate their evidence.
We should be reluctant to rely on a single source. If we do rely on a single source, a named on the record source is always preferable.
We should normally only rely on an agency report if it can be substantiated by a BBC correspondent or if it is attributed to a reputable national or international news agency.
We should record our interviews with sources wherever possible. In circumstances where recording might inhibit the source, full notes should be made, preferably at the time, or if not, then as soon as possible afterwards.