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Committee examines whether current local journalism business models are sustainable

15 June 2022

Due to other Parliamentary business, the session on sustainability of local journalism will not now take place today as scheduled. 

Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee hears from a range of local journalism providers with differing business models in a session exploring the future of the industry. Whether the digital advertising landscape relying on the “eyeball economy” of views and clicks undermines the industry is likely to be discussed, as may the merits of subscription models and the value of social media for hyperlocal journalism.

Witnesses

Thursday 16 June, 10.00, The Grimond Room, Portcullis House

At 10.00am

  • David Floyd, Managing Director, Social Spider CIC
  • Maria Breslin, Editor, Liverpool Echo
  • Karl Hancock, CEO, Nub News

At 11.00am

  • Matt Abbott, Deputy Director, Independent Community News Network
  • Polly Perkins, Editor, Burngreave Messenger
  • George Brock, Chair, Charitable Journalism Project

This second session of the Sustainability of local journalism inquiry may also discuss how the social impact function of local news operates, whether this model interferes with effective local journalism, and if some local outlets should be afforded charitable status. The Committee may also consider if the BBC's Local Democracy Reporter Service is still a viable way to support the local news sector.

Further information

Image: CCO