When Did Investigative Reporting In The Media Decline?

In the mid 1970s, cracks began to show in the investigative field. Newsroom editors became concerned at the tensions between orthodox journalists, who had to produce regular copy, and the investigative journalist, free to pursue their own interests. Regular reporters were also becoming sceptical about the impact of one off investigative stories and became concerned about their relations with contacts. Pursuing investigative stories took up a lot of time and effort, often with no successful results.

The emergence of investigative journalism did not come coupled with an impact on sales either. The average circulation of all newspapers began to fall, pushing up printing costs and staff wages. By 1987, the BBC was short of funds and was regularly criticised in the press for its expenditure and programmes. Investigative journalism, in conclusion, emerged in the 60s, was followed by a successful streak in the 70s and then dipped in the 80s.