Harassment of Naval families by journalists is “entirely unacceptable”, according to Portsmouth Naval Base Commander Commodore Amjad Hussain.

In a letter to editors of news media in the Hampshire area, Cdre Hussain said: “While acknowledging that media interest in the welfare and attitude of Service families is bound to be high at this time of conflict in Iraq, I have received complaints that misplaced and untoward media interest is impeding the work of the Naval Personal and Family Service (NPFS) staff.

“We neither discourage nor encourage family members to speak to the media, and they are entirely free to do so.

“However, any form of harassment by the media is entirely unacceptable.

“The media practice of ‘door-stepping’ Naval family centres and events in the attempt to interview and photograph are hampering Naval community workers in their important task at this time, and are having the effect of distressing a number of families.

“Although some family members may invite media to their centre, it does not necessarily follow that all who use that centre would be happy about your presence.

“The centres are run by the Naval Personal and Family Service, which alone can give permission for access.

“In at least one case that has come to my attention, persistent and determined efforts by media representatives to gain entry to a family centre has resulted in families being reluctant to return to those facilities.

“As much information as we can give is available through my public relations office.”

Cdre Hussain concludes: “Please do not take any action that could upset or inconvenience families at this anxious time for them, and please do not impede the work of the very dedicated staff of the Naval Personal and Families Service.”