MPs are calling on the Government to back “vital” local newspapers.

Liberal Democrat MP Alistair Carmichael, along with others from all parties, has written asking for support.

The Government has set money aside for spending on public communications about coronavirus and public health.

The MPs are calling for more of the cash to be given to local papers and media.

Lewes campaigner and Liberal Democrat Parliamentary spokesman Oli Henman said: “Local journalism is an important part of the community in our area.

“Local outlets such as the The Argus play a crucial role in not only keeping us all informed about the news in Lewes and the surrounding areas, but they also play an essential role in ensuring accurate information is available locally on the fight against coronavirus and the incredible community response.”

In his letter, Mr Carmichael, MP for Orkney and Shetland, warned that although the “All in, all together” communication campaign had provided public health information as well as advertising revenue for major media groups, local press organisations and journalists still believed there was a lack of support from Government.

The three-month advertising partnership aims to keep the public safe and the nation united throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

Mr Carmichael’s letter was backed by 40 MPs and spoke about the importance of local press in printing trustworthy information, as well the financial strain currently faced by local journalists.

Mr Henman said: “The Government must take action in pledging a proportionate share of public health advertising spend to local media.

“This will not only provide financial support so that these outlets don’t go under during this crisis but will also ensure that they can continue to provide timely information to the public, which is imperative to slowing the spread of the virus.”

The letter said the increased funding would mean both a short-term boost to the Government’s public health communications as well as a long-term investment in protecting and maintaining local media across the country.

Mr Carmichael said: “Local press are some of the most trusted sources of news for our communities and we must support them in this challenging time.

“They are vital to our efforts to respond and recover from the coronavirus and yet they are facing significant financial difficulties.

“This letter is about getting a fair share of Government advertising spend for local and independent press, to reflect both their importance in our communities and their financial needs. The Secretary of State for Health has an important role in deciding where these advertising funds go.”

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