The College of Policing has issued nationwide guidelines saying arrested persons should not be named unless there are exceptional circumstances.

The naming policy of arrested individual has varied from force to force. It has been argued that in high profile sex assault cases, such as that involving Stuart Hall, more victims have come forward after a suspect's identity has been revealed.

The move follows a consultation led by the Association of Chief Police Officers. Writing exclusively in Press Gazette two weeks ago ACPO media lead Andy Trotter said he wanted to end the "bizarre parlour game" where journalists entice press officers to confirm that a certain person has been arrested.