This is something I have become very conscious of in my political activities so far. The BBC would probably say that they give most cover to the most important candidates; those who have the greatest chance of winning, which is generally those from one of the big three parties. But if the smaller parties or Independent candidates never get publicity, how are they to become more known and get consideration from the voters?
As soon as the election's over, the BBC are quite happy to see you again, and if you are involved in newsworthy activity, are very eager to cover your news story. You do get the firm impression that the BBC favour the present three-party system, and don't want anybody else getting a look in.
But the electorate are very aware that most politics is corrupt, and are becoming sick of this 'fixed' system of three large parties, and class it with the other 'fixes', like the MP's expenses scandal, indulged in by parliamentary members of all the three main parties. But this understandably cynical attitude from the public leads to apathy and low turn out from voters, nationalist success in some areas, and the gradual further erosion of whatever democracy we have left.
Personally I feel politics is corrupt, and so is the media that covers it. Sometimes I feel our elections are no more open and fair than those in Iran. The small party or the little man are not given a chance; while the big parties with influence and money and commercial backing stay firmly in place.
