CONSERVATIVE leader and Kent MP Michael Howard says the Hutton report must not deflect the media from calling politicians to account and investigating stories of public interest.

In comments suggesting he shares concerns that aspects of the Hutton report could make it more difficult for journalists to do their job, Mr Howard said: "When all is said and done, nobody should underestimate the vital role of the free media, both broadcast and print, in sustaining a vigorous and healthy democracy.

"If our media, an independent and free media, were ever to become puppets of the Government, then that democracy would be in peril.

Mr Howard was speaking at an awards ceremony for Kent journalists at the weekend. He told the audience attending the Shepherd Neame Kent Journalist Of The Year awards: "It is vital that you are not cowed and carry out your responsibilities both fairly and vigorously. One of your roles is to challenge politicians.

"Of course, allegations of a lack of integrity should not become routine. A fair media should be able to discuss policies without impugning anyone's integrity.

He went on to indicate that journalists should not be fettered when investigating stories.

"There will be occasions when allegations are appropriate and have to be made. When that happens, you will wish to be free to make them and not be intimidated from doing so. These are issues which impact not just on broadcast journalists, they are issues for all journalists.

"The regional and local press play a crucial role in keeping democracy healthy. The regional press is not just the best read but the most widely-trusted of all media."

His remarks reflect the growing anxiety that the Hutton report's conclusions on the circumstances in which such allegations could be made may compromise the ability of the media to report them.

Lord Hutton said accusations of fact, impugning the integrity of others, should not be made by the media.