Local Newspapers And Journalism

EDM number 35 in 2009-10, proposed by Bob Spink on 18/11/2009.
Categorised under the topic of Press.

That this House congratulates local, paid-for daily and free weekly papers on the service they provide for communities, particularly in keeping people informed about news, services and events in their area, campaigning on important local issues, helping to maintain a vibrant local economy, holding elected representatives to account, strengthening democracy and thereby helping to deliver social and economic cohesion for communities; regretfully notes that since the summer of 2008 over 1,000 editorial posts in local news have been cut or left unfilled and that dozens of local newspaper offices have closed despite local newspapers remaining viable businesses; further notes that coverage of court trials, council meetings and local elections is in massive decline;and calls on the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport to meet representatives of the industry to discuss how local papers can continue to deliver a much cherished and needed service and explore innovative solutions to preserve local journalism for the future.

This motion has been signed by a total of 64 MPs, 1 of these signatures have been withdrawn.