Lobby of MPs over 2,000 media job cuts

The NUJ is urging all journalists to lobby their MPs at the House of Commons on Wednesday about the future of local media and job losses in newspapers, broadcasting, and online.
The union claims around 2,000 jobs have been axed across all sectors of the media, including 900 in the regional press since July last year.
A standard letter sent out to NUJ members to pass on to their MPs states: "As one of your constituents, and a journalist, I am concerned about the future of local media. I am particularly worried that the government may be persuaded by big business lobbying to introduce changes that could actually exacerbate the problems faced by local journalists.
"You may be aware that across the whole UK local papers and broadcasters have been closing offices and axing staff. The cutbacks across the media are damaging quality journalism and the vital role it plays in our communities.
"Many media companies are now lobbying for changes to media ownership rules or for state support, but I am concerned that such action, without guarantees to secure investment in quality journalism, could actually make matters worse. I believe government action in this area should look to support local journalism, not simply the big businesses that own most local media outlets."
There is a briefing for MPs about regional journalism in the UK at 2pm in Committee Room 20 of the House of Commons. Individual journalists are encouraged to speak to their own MP after the briefing.