Borders MPs backing moves to support local newspapers such as Southern Reporter

As many businesses across the region and nationwide are unable to operate due to the present lockdown, some are ceasing to advertise, and circulations are dropping due to readers not being able to get out and about as often as previously.

That double challenge has prompted the UK Government’s digital, culture, media and sport secretary, Oliver Dowden, to pledge support for papers through adverts – such as one taking out page seven of the printed version of the Southern this week – to complement its public information campaign as well as supporting newspaper revenues.

Mr Dowden, MP for Hertsmere in Hertfordshire, is also encouraging news publishers to make use of the packages of support available to all businesses such as the job retention scheme allowing employers to furlough workers.

In a letter to fellow MPs, he writes: “News publishers are facing an unprecedented threat to their survival as a result of the impact of Covid-19.

“Paradoxically, trusted news has never been so important or so in demand by the public.

“We are seeing record numbers of traffic and engagement with global, national, regional and local publishers.

“We see this everyday as constituency MPs – journalists providing quality news, binding communities together and playing a fundamental role in our modern democracy.”

Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk MP Mr Lamont, a columnist for the Southern, is backing that show of support, saying: “Local media is so important in providing publicity and scrutiny of local issues.

“National media outlets do not have the capacity to cover local stories and provide local information, and it would be a great shame to lose such a vital resource.

“I welcome the increased support for local newspapers. I know that many are struggling for advertising revenue, given that many businesses are closed for the time being.

“Journalists provide vital scrutiny during these difficult times. However, arguably even more importantly, they highlight the great work of volunteers and key workers, as well as signposting local services available to those who require help.”

Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale MP and fellow Southern columnist Mr Mundell agrees, saying: “A good local newspaper is a vital component for successful communities.

“Unfortunately, essential revenues such as advertising have declined sharply across the industry during the coronavirus lockdown.

“This crisis comes on top of ongoing challenges facing traditional newspapers from social media and internet advertising and it is important we support efforts to safeguard this key source of good local journalism.”