An independent media is essential to our democracy. In Yorkshire, we’re particularly well-served by local and regional newspapers that provide residents with a trustworthy source of news and hold those in power to account.

But, like so many other organisations and businesses, local newspapers need support to get through the coronavirus crisis. That’s why, along with MPs from across Yorkshire, I’ve urged Chancellor Rishi Sunak to do everything in his power to help our trusted local newspapers to weather this crisis.

Our joint letter calls on the government to carry out a public information campaign through local media, which would support newspapers while also providing people with vitally important guidance about the coronavirus. We’ve also asked the Chancellor to extend the 100% business rates holiday for retail, hospitality, and leisure to include news publishers.

By implementing these relatively limited interventions, the government can ensure that, in this time of crisis, local media can continue its vital role in informing the public and connecting our communities.