The PM’s support for newspapers is both timely and welcome

Theresa May has announced a review into the future of the newspaper industry, warning that the closure of hundreds of titles was a ‘danger to our democracy’. These words couldn’t be more true.

In a speech in Manchester, she warned that the decline of ‘credible’ news providers left the public ‘vulnerable to news which is untrustworthy’.

The review will look into sustainable funding models for the printed press at national, regional and local level.

The Prime Minister said high-quality journalism was a ‘force for good’.

“Good quality journalism provides us with the information and analysis we need to inform our viewpoints and conduct a genuine discussion,” she said.

“It is a huge force for good. But in recent years – especially in local journalism – we’ve seen falling circulations, a hollowing-out of local newsrooms, and fears for the future sustainability of high quality journalism.”

Research by Press Gazette in December 2016 found that 46 regional and local titles had closed in the previous 18 months, with big players such as Trinity Mirror and Johnston Press among those shutting or merging long-established titles. The Moorlander continues to buck the trend.

The trade publication said there were 198 fewer regional and local titles than in 2005.

“Here in Greater Manchester, several local newspapers have closed, including the Salford Advertiser, the Trafford Advertiser and the Wilmslow Express,” Mrs May said.

“This is dangerous for our democracy. When trusted and credible news sources decline, we can become vulnerable to news which is untrustworthy.”

The review, whose chair will be announced in due course, will look at what role the government can play in maintaining a diverse and vibrant press landscape or whether solutions should be left up to the industry.

The News Media Association said viable business models must be found to ensure the survival of local journalism.

So support your local paper: The Moorlander.