This follows the government’s previous position that the new rules would be enforced no earlier than Spring 2027.

The decision was made at Ministerial level and reflects the change in government since Andy Burnham became Prime Minister.

The PPA has been in close communication with the team overseeing implementation at the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade (BIST), and will continue working closely with members to ensure they have the right support ahead of the changes. Our strong working relationships with both BIST and the CMA mean we are well placed to keep members informed as guidance develops, and to raise members’ concerns directly with those responsible for implementation.

Sajeeda Merali, CEO, PPA said: “We’re disappointed that the Minister has gone back on the previously stated timing, which was not expected to be before Spring 2027. Bringing the deadline forward will be genuinely difficult for publishers to operationalise, particularly those without large teams to support them through the process. We have a good relationship with the teams at BIST and the CMA, and we’ll be pushing hard to make sure our members get the support they need.”

The PPA’s webinar with a representative from BIST and a legal expert from Lewis Silkin on the subscription rules will still be going ahead as planned, on 14th September, 12:00 to 13:00. Sign up here.

We welcome questions in advance. Please send these to eilidh.wilson@ppa.co.uk (Head of Policy and Public Affairs, PPA).