ABC Revises National Newspaper Rules

The ABC has announced a major revision of its rules for the national newspaper industry in an attempt to improve the transparency of data supplied.

Extensive discussions between the ABC, national newspaper publishers and media buyers has resulted in the revised set of rules which commences on 30 March 1998, for the April 1998 ABC audit period. The revisions include:

• A clearer definition of at what point a copy qualifies for inclusion in the ABC figures
• More expansive controls on Multiple Copy/Bulk Circulation
• A higher threshold on qualifying for an issue to be excluded from the ABC figures, drawing back to the ideal that issues may only be excluded under exceptional circumstances
• Greater consistency over the treatment of lesser rate circulation
• Improved audit procedures to ensure the highest standards are maintained.

Commenting on the revisions, Ray Hall, director of the Bureau said: “This is only the beginning and it is expected that other issues will be debated at future working party meetings.”

The working party will meet on a regular basis to discuss whether rules are working as intended and to recommend further revisions where necessary.

Audit Bureau Of Circulations: 01442 870 800