Earlier today, Philip Pullman spoke to Jeremy Vine on BBC Radio 2 about his decision to longer make school visits in the wake of new rules that require guest writers and illustrators to register with the national Independent Safeguarding Authority, effective in the next school year. He spoke out against the underlying assumption that any visitor entering a school intends to do harm, and insisted upon the safety of children under existing protocols for guest speakers. Vine also spoke to former child protection officer Rebecca Andrews who defended the vetting scheme.

You can listen to the interview again on BBC’s iPlayer. The broadcast expires in seven days (on 23rd July). Vine does not discuss the matter until later in the program, so if you’re only interested in hearing about the new scheme, skip to 1:42:20. Thanks to Jason and Chris for letting us know. Discussion continues on our forum.