Documents reveal UK’s secret media censorship over national-security reporting

Newly released documents have offered a detailed look inside the UK’s Defense and Security Media Advisory (DSMA) Committee, revealing how the body guides, shapes, and at times suppresses reporting on national-security issues, and now seeks to extend its influence to social media platforms.

A cache of DSMA files published by The Grayzone shows how the committee — made up of military, intelligence, and media representatives — routinely advises British newsrooms on sensitive subjects, including intelligence operations, special forces activity, and high-profile criminal inquiries.

Although the DSMA system is formally voluntary, the documents show the body boasts of a “90%+ success rate” in persuading journalists not to publish certain information, while categorizing independent media as “extremist” for publishing “embarrassing” stories.

Logs from 2011 to 2014 list dozens of “requests for advice” on topics ranging from the death of GCHQ employee Gareth Williams to UK cooperation with foreign intelligence services. The documents do not clarify whether journalists sought guidance proactively or whether the committee intervened pre-publication.

The Grayzone report interprets the large number of inquiries as evidence of substantial editorial influence, particularly regarding reporting on rendition programs, special forces operations in Libya, and Syria.

From May to November 2012, the Committee handled requests relating to British special forces “involvement in Syria.” It was widely speculated that British special forces were present in Syria at this time, though few details have emerged since. 

The files also show DSMA involvement surrounding long-running, sensitive cases such as the Dunblane massacre, Operation Ore, claims about child sexual abuse involving public officials, and the death of Princess Diana. 

 In some instances, journalists reportedly offered formal apologies for publishing material the committee viewed as problematic.

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The documents further reveal tensions between the DSMA and independent outlets. A briefing to Australian officials labels critical non-mainstream publications as “extreme,” citing examples of independent reporting that did not follow DSMA advice.

The committee’s internal review, however, asserts it does not act on information merely because it may “embarrass” the government.

As digital platforms have weakened traditional media controls, the DSMA has pushed to expand its remit. Internal reviews describe social media as a threat to its influence, and meeting minutes show the committee exploring ways to involve “tech giants” in a push to suppress revealing disclosures on platforms like Meta and Twitter/X.

While platforms have largely resisted direct engagement, the DSMA has expressed hope that future regulation could compel greater cooperation.

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