Communications and Digital Committee takes evidence from former NCSC chief, UnHerd and other industry experts
The Communications and Digital Committee continues its inquiry into the future of the news. Professor Ciaran Martin, former head of the National Cyber Security Centre; Freddie Sayers, CEO of UnHerd; and other experts discuss the challenges posed by mis/disinformation and the appropriate level of response by industry and government.
Meeting details
Background
The inquiry is examining the changing media landscape and what needs to happen to ensure a thriving, trusted and financially sustainable news ecosystem. Key areas include the broadening concept of what constitutes ‘news’, the impact of a decline in trust in traditional news outlets, the challenges around editorial decisions, and the impact of tech platforms and generative AI on news media business models. It comes amid the world’s largest election year, and ahead of an anticipated UK general election.
Possible areas for discussion
Possible areas for discussion with Professor Martin include:
- The evolving challenges around disinformation and the objectives of foreign state actors;
- whether the Government’s response to the threat of disinformation is adequate; and
- the appropriate role of the media and technology firms in challenging and correcting inaccuracies and misleading content.
Possible areas for discussion with Panel 2 witnesses include:
- Whether the concept of disinformation has become politicised or used to stifle alternative viewpoints;
- whether the response to a perceived threat of disinformation has in itself reduced public trust in traditional news outlets; and
- the appropriate role of the Government in responding to mis/disinformation.