Recommendation 9

We are glad that the Government appears to be expediting the introduction of the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumer Bill, which will be vital to redressing the unbalanced relationship between the large digital platforms and local news publishers (among many others). It is important that any code of conduct and collective bargaining mechanisms provided for by the bill do not lead to the exclusion of smaller news publishers. We recommend that clear and explicit provisions for ensuring smaller publishers are fairly remunerated be included in the Government’s new pro-competition regime. (Paragraph 81) Sustainability of local journalism 39