Digital publishing, Public Affairs

Secretary of State says big tech needs to do more to support publishers

At the Labour Party conference in Liverpool, Lisa Nandy, Secretary of State for the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), emphasised the need for large tech companies to promote trusted content on their platforms.

Nandy said: “Google often doesn’t promote content [from news publishers in the same] the way they do others, they need a fair playing field. We are talking to industry about it.”

Nandy highlighted the importance of a plural media landscape in tackling disinformation and ensuring the provision of trusted, audience-sensitive journalism. Specifically, she referenced the Southport riots and the role of local journalism in keeping the public informed and promoting community cohesion.

The PPA is engaging with the relevant Government and regulatory stakeholders to raise awareness about the value of specialist publishers and magazine media in providing high-quality, authoritative journalism, and promoting cohesion among communities of shared interests. We agree with the Secretary of State that platforms need to do more to promote the content of publishers and will be closely monitoring the Government’s next steps.

If you have any questions or wish to discuss this with our team, please get in touch with our Head of Policy and Public Affairs, Eilidh Wilson, eilidh.wilson@ppa.co.uk.

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