National Executive Committee Statement

“A starting point for all our actions as members of a party and a movement is to treat all people
with dignity and respect. This applies to all our dealings with people, offline and online.
Everyone should feel able to take part in discussion about our party, country and world.
We want to maximise this debate, including critical discussion, as long as it does not result in the
exclusion of others.
Abusing someone online is just as serious as doing so face to face. We stand against all forms of
abuse and will take action against those who commit it.
Harassment, intimidation, hateful language and bullying are never acceptable, nor is any form of
discrimination on the basis of gender, race, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or
disability.
Any member found in breach of the above policies will be dealt with according to the rules and
procedures of the Labour Party. ”

WHY DOES THIS GUIDANCE EXIST ?
Social media can bring significant benefits to the local party particularly for
building relationships with both current and potential future supporters and
voters.
However, it’s important that members who use social media within the
Huntingdon CLP name do so in a way that enhances the party’s prospects
A misjudged or careless post status can cause complaints or damage the
party’s reputation.

WHO CAN USE AND POST ON HUNTINGDON CLP SOCIAL MEDIA
ACCOUNTS?
Members or officers who have access to the social media accounts at the
behest of the membership and nominated content providers/editors – to be
known henceforth as “approved users.”

PUT SIMPLY …
Labour social media accounts may be used for many different purposes but
In general, approved members should only post updates, messages or
otherwise use these accounts when that use is clearly in line with the party’s
overall objectives and best interests.
For instance, approved members may use Huntingdon CLP (henceforth
HCLP or “the party” ) social media accounts to:
* Respond to requests for help
* Share blog posts, articles and other content created by the party.
* Share articles, videos, media and other relevant content created by others.
* Provide an insight into what is happening in the party
* Promote election campaigns

Everyone who posts on the Huntingdon CLP social media account has
responsibility for adhering to this guidance.
However, these people have key responsibilities:
* The social media editor/campaign director are ultimately responsible for
ensuring that party members use social media safely, appropriately and in
line with the party’s objectives.
* The IT officers are responsible for providing apps and tools to manage
HCLP’s social media presence and track any key performance indicators.
They are also responsible for proactively monitoring for social media security
threats.
* The IT and social media/communications group and steering group are
responsible for creating ideas and campaigns to be broadcast via the CLP’s
social media channels

RULES FOR APPROVED USERS USING HUNTINGDON CLP SOCIAL
MEDIA
Users must not:
Create or transmit material that might be defamatory or incur liability for the
party and/or HCLP.
Post message, status updates or links to material or content that is
inappropriate.
Inappropriate content includes: pornography, racial or religious slurs, genderspecific comments, information encouraging criminal skills or terrorism, or
materials relating to cults, gambling and illegal drugs.
Use social media for any illegal or criminal activities.
Send offensive or harassing material to others via social media.
Broadcast unsolicited views on social, political, religious or other non-party
related matters.
Send or post messages or material that could damage the party’s image or
reputation.
Interact with Huntingdon CLP’s opponents in any ways which could be
interpreted as being offensive, disrespectful or rude. Communication with
direct rivals should be kept to a minimum.
Approved users should always use accessible language and avoid jargon
that could exclude or alienate – e.g “Tory scum”.
Post, upload, forward or link to spam, junk email or chain emails and
messages.

SOME GENERAL GUIDELINES AND ADVICE FOR APPROVED USERS
Social media offers a platform for HUNTINGDON CLP to get its message
across, stay connected with supporters and and build its profile.
Approved users should err on the side of caution when posting to social
networks.
If unsure, don’t post it.
If an approved user feels an update or message might cause complaints or
offence — or be otherwise unsuitable — they should not post it.
If further in doubt approved members should always consult the editor or
chair for advice.
Be thoughtful and polite.
Don’t escalate things. Approved users should always take the time to think
before responding, and hold back if they are in any doubt.
Don’t make promises on behalf of the party without checking first.
Handle complex queries via other channels – such as email or phone.

And finally …
FIVE BASIC PRINCIPLES FOR HUNTINGDON CLP’s USE OF SOCIAL
MEDIA
1) We are direct, confident and proud in what we have to say – we speak boldly and with clear
intention.
2) We want debate and discussion to flourish and will encourage feedback wherever appropriate.
3) We put the stories and experiences of the public first. We prioritise the issues that affect people
in their everyday lives, rather than providing news for insiders.
4) We are inventive and innovative with our digital strategy and that means experimentation.
5) We know that not everyone will agree with us. Constructive criticism is welcome, but if
comments become abusive we will report them.
Nigel Pauley – September 2017