We Conservatives believe it is reasonable to allow foreign states to part-own newspapers

Telegraph

16-05-2025

The freedom of the press is a cornerstone of our democracy. Not a luxury, but a necessity. It safeguards the public's right to be informed, challenges those in positions of power, and ensures that our national discourse remains open, balanced and accountable.
In a democratic society, a free press does not simply report the news.
That is why the last Conservative government was entirely right to act decisively in preventing majority control of a British newspaper group by a foreign state-owned entity.
However well-intentioned a buyer may be, the relevant principle is defending the independence of our press from external influence that could compromise its perceived editorial autonomy and integrity.
In general, the Conservative Party welcomes foreign investment in our economy and recognises that we need sustainable funding models for journalism, which may include private and overseas capital. But we also acknowledge that this must be combined with upholding the independence of the media.
When it comes to the media, especially the press, the stakes are different. Ownership carries important influence over public discourse and political accountability.
The case for scrutiny is about protecting the independence and integrity of one of our most important democratic institutions. A free press must be answerable only to the truth, not to political interests, foreign or domestic.
We also acknowledge the economic pressures facing the journalism industry today. The rise of digital media, the decline in print circulation, and the dominance of global tech platforms have made it increasingly difficult for traditional news organisations to remain financially viable.
A well-funded press is only valuable if it is independent and guided by journalistic integrity.
As we are in Opposition, we will scrutinise the Government's policy on this matter with care and rigour.
We will ask the difficult and necessary questions.
We will ensure that actions taken in the name of national interest are grounded in transparency and a clear understanding of the long-term implications for press freedom.
We will examine the details and fine print of policy. Encouragingly, so far it appears that the Government's decision about permitted minority holdings does follow established precedents.
We believe that the proposed 15pc threshold seems reasonable as it is combined with a new duty on the Secretary of State, which will safeguard editorial independence.
Therefore, we will be supporting the Government's overall approach, while continuing to provide the scrutiny on the detail which is expected of the Opposition.
Overall, we must also be a country that welcomes investment, but also one that knows where and when to draw the line. Our commitment as Conservatives is unequivocal: we will always stand on the side of a free and independent press.
At a time when disinformation is rife and trust in institutions is under strain, a press that is accountable only to its readers, and governed by professional ethics rather than political directives, is more essential than ever.
The British people rightly expect their newspapers to tell the truth, challenge authority and reflect the full diversity of opinion in our society.
They deserve nothing less, and as Conservatives, we will not falter in defending that principle.