At the same time, Adrian Wheeler, a CIPR fellow, chair of the CIPR’s Professional Practices Committee and a partner at Agincourt Communications has been named winner of the Sir Stephen Tallents Medal for 2010. The medal was founded in 1984 and is awarded by the president in recognition of exceptional achievement in, and contribution to, the development of public relations practice by a CIPR member.

“It’s a real privilege to recognise the achievements and contributions of two outstanding individuals,” said Jay O’Connor, the 2010 CIPR president. “Shami, together with her colleagues at Liberty, has campaigned tirelessly for individual human dignity, equal treatment and fairness - the foundations of a democratic society. Shami’s ability to engage, communicate and to campaign on behalf of all sections of society is a perfect example of how public relations can be a force for good.

“Adrian has led the development of the CIPR’s Code of Conduct standards as Chair of the Professional Practices Committee. He is an advocate of best practice, articulate and vocal on issues of quality and conduct.”

Chakrabarti said she was “honoured” to receive the award. “Members of the CIPR will understand the importance of a clear message better than most. Liberty’s is simple but powerful – that every human being has a right to dignity, equality and justice, and that these rights must be protected within the rule of law.”