National security
The Official Secrets Act affects our ability to report on some matters relating to security and intelligence issues. The Defence Advisory Notices provide guidance about defence and counter-terrorist information which if published might damage national security. The system is voluntary, it has no legal authority and the final responsibility for deciding whether or not to publish rests solely with us. The DA Notices are available at http://www.dnotice.org.uk/notices.htm.
Content producers should seek senior editorial and legal advice at an early stage when handling material that falls in these areas. They must inform Controller Editorial Policy of any approach from the Defence Advisory Notice Secretary.