Jamie Stone urges Governments to support local papers
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Local MP Jamie Stone is a leading signatory on a letter composed by the Independent Community News Network (ICNN), which proposes more government advertising for smaller media organisations.
With both Governments spending more money on national outlets and broadcast media, the letter notes that it is important the Government also financially supports trusted local media outlets.
After signing the letter, Mr Stone said: "Local papers have an incredibly high readership in the Far North. They play an important role in holding politicians like me to account. The current coronavirus crisis is posing a serious threat to their cash flow, as advertising dries up.
“Everyone must do what they can to support local journalism. We cannot risk losing our local press' vital contribution to our community, our culture, and our democracy. They are at the front line of keeping us all informed and connected.
"Support from our community in this trying time will go a long way, but I have signed ICNN's letter because I believe that the Government must do their bit as well. I will look to raise this with the Government when a digital parliament is up and running!"
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