A set of almost 40 journalism and open government groups called on the Obama Administration yesterday to practice greater transparency when it comes to the activities of federal agencies. In a letter sent to the White House, the 38 groups expressed concern over practices such as agencies not allowing federal employees to speak to reporters without public affairs personnel present, lengthy delays in getting answers on interview requests and a lack of on-the-record answers and briefings. “Some argue that controlling media access is needed to ensure information going out is correct. But when journalists cannot interview agency staff, or can only do so under surveillance, it undermines public understanding of, and trust in, government,” the letter says, adding, “This is not a ‘press vs. government’ issue. This is about fostering a strong democracy where people have the information they need to self-govern and trust in its governmental institutions.” The full letter can be found here.