DCMS Committee holds hearing on sustainability of local journalism

Scope of the session

As part of the inquiry into sustainability of local journalism, MPs will hear 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.  

This session 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. 

Witnesses

Thursday 7 July in The Wilson Room (Portcullis House)

First panel (from 10.30am):

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

Second panel (from approximately 11.15am):

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

Further information

• About Parliament: Select committees
• Visiting Parliament: Watch committees

Image: CCO