NUJ labels Conservative Party's media work experience auction 'disgusting'
The National Union of Journalists has branded the sale of a fortnight’s work experience at Tatler magazine as ‘disgusting’.
The Mail on Sunday claimed that the placement was sold for £4,000 at auction during the Conservative’s and White party, with a placement at Bell Pottinger also being sold for £2,000.
Michelle Stanistreet, deputy general secretary of the NUJ issued a statement, which read:
"Internships should be open to all not the preserve of a wealthy few and the fact that they are being auctioned to raise funds for a political party is obscene.”
She continued: "Such a disgusting practice simply perpetuates privilege and inequality. Is this what is meant by the Big Society – only the wealthy need apply?"
So far, the Conservative Party, Tatler and the magazine's publisher Conde Nast all declined to comment.