MPs debate Media Bill

Public Affairs

MPs debate Media Bill

1 December 2023

Public Affairs

MPs debate Media Bill

The Media Bill had its second reading in the House of Commons, after being addressed in the King’s Speech earlier this month.

The Secretary of State for Media, Culture and Sport, Rt Hon Lucy Frazer MP, defended the repeal of Section 40 of the Crime and Courts Act, addressing it as one of the Bill’s most significant measures.

There is commitment to repealing Section 40, which would be a positive move for publishers and journalists as it will promote and protect the country’s free press.

What is Section 40 of the Crime and Courts Act and how does it impact publishers?

Section 40 is a clause in the Crime and Courts Act which would force publishers to pay both sides’ legal costs in court action, whether they win or lose, unless signed up to a state-backed regulator. This would jeopardise the democratic nature of the press, and have a burdensome effect on smaller, independent publishers.

The PPA is continuing to monitor the progress of the Media Bill as it passes through parliament.

If you have any questions, please contact our Public Affairs Team: Eilidh.wilson@ppa.co.uk or Natasha.anku@ppa.co.uk

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