Question to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, what steps he is taking to support local newspapers; and if he will make a statement.

This Government believes local newspapers have a vital role to play in local communities and in local democracy. We are keen to explore how local newspapers can achieve a long term sustainable future and Government has already committed to consulting on business rates relief for local newspapers, as well as committing almost £1 million to support 24 pilot projects on the future of statutory notices.