Publishers have warned that greater support for local media is essential to hold mayors and councils to account under Andy Burnham's devolution plans, which would transfer significant power from Westminster to local government. Without trusted professional local journalists, the promise of devolution could become an illusion, they argue.
Industry leaders call for media policy integration
Theo Bamber, chief executive of the News Media Association, which represents UK national, regional, and local news publishers, noted that the government's devolution announcements have not mentioned press or media policy. He called this a mistake, stating that the two should not be siloed and that the success of devolution depends on scrutiny.
Bamber highlighted that 46 million people consume local media monthly, demonstrating the sector's resilience and its role in countering misinformation, particularly during recent unrest in Southampton and Belfast. However, concerns persist as some journalists face restricted access to meetings, with policymakers reducing press conferences or favoring social media.
Challenges from populist barriers and big tech
Last year, a Reform UK council leader's ban on councillors engaging with a prominent local newspaper was condemned as a "massive attack on local democracy," signaling potential future threats. There is also unease that Keir Starmer's administration has embraced influencers, and Burnham has been slow to make himself available for questions.
The National Union of Journalists (NUJ) warned that a weak local news sector would threaten devolution, and support cannot be left to market forces. Laura Davison, NUJ general secretary, noted that millions live in news deserts, with about 300 local papers closed since 2005 and large-scale job losses. John McDonnell, Labour MP and NUJ parliamentary group secretary, emphasized that devolution requires resourcing local media to report on and hold decision makers accountable.
Government funding and calls for more
The government has announced up to £12 million over two years to support local news outlets through the Local News Fund, aimed at filling news deserts and aiding digital transitions. However, calls for additional support persist, especially from startups in underserved areas.
Mike Harris, publisher of the independent digital newspaper the Lead, said they have launched new local titles in communities most threatened by the far right, but making the business model work is challenging. He stressed that while working-class communities donate and subscribe, it is harder than in wealthier cities. He warned that without support for expensive, quality news, we risk losing the battle for truth against extremist online content.
Opportunities for regional media
Sarah Lester, editor of the Manchester Evening News, hopes devolution will lead to a "devolution of media," ensuring local spending is scrutinized. Her publication, a model for adaptation, won awards for investigations like Awaab's Law. She acknowledged that not all areas get equal attention but hopes devolution raises the profile of challenges facing local media, including downgrading on big tech platforms. She concluded, "Ultimately, we don't want hand outs. We want a level playing field."
