https://defrafmp.blog.gov.uk/using-this-blog-comments-moderation-and-feedback/

Using this blog: comments, moderation and feedback

We want readers to learn and join respectful, useful discussions. Before commenting, please make sure your post is relevant and adds something helpful to the conversation. Always be respectful and follow our guidelines.

Participation guidelines

We ask that when you leave a comment on a blog post you:  

  • are respectful of others who use this site.  
  • stay on topic - make sure your comment is relevant to details in the blog post you are commenting on. 
  • keep comments concise - no more than 100 words. 
  • do not use language that is offensive, inflammatory, or provocative (this includes, but is not limited to swearing and obscene or vulgar comments.)  
  • do not break the law (this includes libel, condoning illegal activity and contempt of court)  
  • do not use this site for party political purposes (this site is paid for with public money so it's inappropriate to engage in party-political activity)  
  • do not post personal information in comments such as addresses, phone numbers, e-mail addresses or other online contact details, which may relate to you or other individuals.  
  • do not impersonate or falsely claim to represent a person or an organisation  
  • do not attempt to log on using another user’s account.  
  • do not make any commercial endorsement or promotion of any product, service, or publication not relevant to the discussion.  

If you are aged 16 or under, please get the permission of your parent or guardian before participating. Users without this consent are not allowed to participate.  

Moderation  

Comments on the FMP blog are moderated before they are published to check they comply with the guidelines above. 

What can you expect from us?

  • The blog team works with colleagues across Defra group, including Defra policy and partners to inform them of all comments, and on a response if needed.
  • When a comment does not follow the guidelines, it will not be published.
  • We aim to action comments within 7–14 working days. However, if we need to liaise with multiple parties, this timeframe may be extended.

Here is a brief outline of what we check when we evaluate comments:

  • Is this comment ‘on topic’? Is it relevant to the subject discussed in the post, does it add value to the discussion and can Defra answer publicly?

If so, publish the comment with or without a response.

Our content team focus on comments that are 'on topic' . We ask that comments be about details covered in the post so that the comment section is a useful addition to the post and adds value to the topic.

If you have a comment that would not be on-topic please contact us using the email address below.

  • Is a comment asking a similar question to another?

We may approve and reply to just one comment to avoid repetition.

  • Is the user asking for information or commenting on details that are not covered in the post?

This would not be on topic so the comment will not be published. The comment will be passed onto the relevant team.

  • Is this comment venting frustration or anger?

Refer to the participation guidelines above and discuss the next steps with the relevant team.

Feedback  

If you have a comment, suggestion or question please contact us at FMPs@defra.gov.uk.