John Battle (Tulley’s 1981) head of legal and compliance at broadcaster ITN has been named as honorary King’s Counsel. Honorary KCs are awarded to those who have made a major contribution to the law of England and Wales, outside practice in the courts.
John is a leading figure and driving force behind the issue of filming court proceedings, leading the broadcast industry group (BBC, ITN, Sky, PA), and is recognised for his commitment to his extensive work between the media, MoJ and senior judiciary.
John is a committee member of the Media Lawyers Association who worked with HM Courts and Tribunals Service to develop a new Reporters’ Charter. The Charter, launched in May 2022, outlines the rights and responsibilities of court reporters was launched to boost transparency in the justice system.
In July 2022, Broadcast news channels aired judges’ sentencing remarks from the Crown Court for the first time, following a change in the law. John was a key figure in the campaign for televised sentencing at the Old Bailey.
John is not only an Alleyn’s alumnus but also a former parent, with his four children now also alumni of the School. John also supports Alleyn’s and alumni as a member of the Edward Alleyn Club (EAC) management board.