Subject: Re: your inquiry — [topic / outlet]

Dear [Journalist name],

Thank you for your message and for giving us the opportunity to comment.

I'm passing this through to [Head of Comms / named press contact], who will be in touch with a substantive response by [time], well within your stated deadline of [their deadline].

In the meantime, here is our usual press contact for any background:
- [Press contact name]
- [Email]
- [Phone]

If your deadline shifts, please let us know and we'll match it.

Best regards,
[Your name]
[Title]