Editorial standards

Accuracy and verification

Every factual claim in a Midnight story is verified before publication. Reporters must confirm information with at least two independent sources wherever possible, and original documents, data or direct testimony are always preferred over second-hand accounts.

Figures are checked against primary sources. Quotes are verified with the speaker. When a fact cannot be confirmed, we either say so explicitly or leave it out.

Sourcing

• Named sources are the default; anonymity is granted only when a source faces genuine risk and the information cannot be obtained otherwise.
• Anonymous claims are never published on the word of a single source.
• We do not pay for interviews or information.
• AI tools may assist with transcription, research and copywriting, but never verify a story — every story is the responsibility of a named journalist.

Independence

Editorial decisions are made by editors, full stop. Advertisers, sponsors and partners have no sight of stories before publication and no influence over coverage. Journalists may not accept gifts, travel or hospitality from organisations they cover.

Where a potential conflict of interest exists — a board relationship, an investment, a personal connection — it is disclosed in the story itself.

Fairness and right of reply

People and organisations criticised in our reporting are always given a fair opportunity to respond before publication, with reasonable time to do so. Their response is included prominently, not buried.

Corrections

When we get something wrong, we fix it quickly and say so clearly. Significant corrections appear at the top of the story and on our public Corrections page, with the date and nature of the change. We never silently edit published reporting.