MPs get the message
THE UNION lobbied MPs in March to press the case for saving local media. Forty MPs and dozens of journalists packed into a Commons committee room to condemn the recent cutbacks.
They also discussed possible solutions to the crisis in commercial newspapers, websites, TV and radio. Companies are making huge job and budget cuts to shore up short-term profits, yet they have no long-term strategy for the future of their businesses, said General Secretary Jeremy Dear.
“We want the government to help, but it needs to be supporting quality journalism — not profits for greedy shareholders. Any state support must serve communities — not provide speculators with a taxpayer-funded cash machine.”
John McDonnell MP, secretary of the NUJ Parliamentary Group, said: “MPs rely on local media to communicate with constituents. We know the important role journalism plays in a democracy.
“Now the fight is on to ensure we have a properly funded media that’s accountable to local people.”
More than 100 MPs have signed a parliamentary motion outlining the NUJ’s concerns.
Jeremy Dear addressed the lobby meeting, alongside Austin Mitchell MP (left), chair of the NUJ’s Parliamentary group and a former regional journalist for Yorkshire TV, and MP John McDonnell.