As newspapers search for the formula that will keep them competitive in the face of new digital challenges comes a timely reminder of the peerless the value of the newspaper – its role as public watchdog.
In the UK, the Daily Telegraph has pulled off a remarkable journalistic scoop with its still-running expose of the way that Members of the British Parliament had abused the expenses system. It is a story which will lead to huge change in the British Parliamentary system. Unconfirmed reports estimate that the Daily and Sunday Telegraph have put on an extra circulation of more than 600,000 copies.
But what The Telegraph also reports today that the scandal has also boosted interest in local newspapers and given titles a new sense of community urgency. Papers have been quick to demand explanations publicly from the Member of Parliament representing their area. In one case, the Northamptonshire Evening Telegraph ran an additional 6 pages for Readers Letters such was the sense of local feeling.
It is a reminder of the value and of the watchdog role of newspapers in modern society. It also brings commercial success. Meanwhile, perhaps more good news for the paid-for newspaper model as The Independent newspaper reports that free newspapers are “in retreat”.
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