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MPs Rally Against UAE Takeover of The Telegraph, Citing Press Freedom Concerns

Over 100 MPs from various parties have united to demand legislative power to block foreign government ownership of UK media, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding press freedom.

Overview

  • More than 100 MPs, including former Cabinet ministers, have signed a letter urging the government to support a Lords amendment that would allow Parliament to veto foreign state ownership of UK news media.
  • The cross-party effort is aimed at preventing the proposed Abu Dhabi takeover of The Telegraph, with MPs labeling the move a 'dangerous Rubicon' for press freedom.
  • Labour is considering backing the amendment, with a debate scheduled ahead of the Lords' discussion on the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Bill.
  • Concerns over the UAE's human rights record and potential for editorial influence have been raised, with Ofcom and the Competition and Markets Authority currently investigating the takeover.
  • The proposed takeover involves a £1.2 billion debt deal by RedBird IMI, partially funded by Abu Dhabi's Sheikh Mansour, with promises of editorial independence.