On Wednesday, UK government announced to Block Overseas Governments from Owning British Newspapers.
Legislative Amendment Announcement of British Newspaper ownership
Stephen Parkinson, a media minister, declared in the House of Lords that the UK government would amend proposed legislation to prohibit foreign state ownership of newspapers, potentially halting the controversial Abu Dhabi-led takeover of the Telegraph Media Group.
This decision, aimed at safeguarding press freedom, follows mounting pressure over the proposed acquisition of the Daily Telegraph newspaper and Spectator magazine by a joint venture majority-owned by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, vice president and deputy prime minister of the United Arab Emirates.
Political and Media Backlash on UK government
The acquisition, valued at £1.2 billion ($1.5 billion), raised concerns among British lawmakers, including some within the ruling Conservative party, known for its close ties to the right-leaning Telegraph titles and the Spectator, often referred to as the “Tory bible.”
Reaction from Media Figures and Activists
Andrew Neil, chair of the Spectator, praised the government’s move as “a step in the right direction” but criticized the timing, highlighting his long-standing advocacy for such legislation.
The proposed takeover also sparked dissent among Telegraph staff and press freedom activists, citing concerns over the UAE’s history of press censorship.
UK Government’s Commitment to Press Freedom
The UK government, responding to parliamentary concerns, aims to implement the amendment swiftly, signaling its intention to block foreign state ownership, influence, or control over newspapers and periodicals. However, the ban would not extend to broadcasters.
While RedBird IMI, the acquiring entity, emphasized Sheikh Mansour’s passive role and American leadership, speculation arose about potential restructuring of the bid to reduce the UAE’s stake, leaving room for minority foreign government interests in newspapers and magazines.
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