Which guidelines state that police cannot stop journalists from photographing or filming in public?

The correct answer is based on the understanding that the College of Policing guidelines emphasize the rights of journalists to operate freely in public spaces without unnecessary interference from police. These guidelines aim to uphold the principles of press freedom, which includes the ability to photograph or film in public areas where there is no reasonable expectation of privacy.

Specifically, these guidelines instruct police to respect the role of journalists and not to inhibit their activities in public environments, as this aligns with the democratic principles of freedom of expression and the importance of a free press. By following these guidelines, law enforcement can ensure they are upholding the law while also respecting the vital function that journalists serve in society, such as informing the public and holding authorities accountable.

This framework contrasts with the other options, which do not have explicitly defined policies on the rights of journalists in relation to police activities in public spaces. For instance, the Press Complaints Commission guidelines primarily focus on ethical standards for journalism, while the National Police Chiefs’ Council guidelines and Media Standards Trust guidelines may not explicitly address the freedom of journalists to photograph or film without police interference.