Scott Trust Faces Backlash Over Observer Sale to Tortoise Media

Guardian and Observer journalists criticize the secretive sale process, raising concerns about transparency and the future of liberal journalism.

The Scott Trust has approved the sale of The Observer to Tortoise Media, a loss-making startup, sparking criticism from over 100 journalists.
Staff allege they were excluded from discussions, with no prior consultation or involvement in due diligence before the decision was made.
The sale includes a £5m investment in Tortoise Media by the Scott Trust, raising questions about why similar investment was denied to The Observer.
Concerns have been raised about the lack of exploration of alternative buyers, with at least two other interested parties reportedly ignored.
The National Union of Journalists plans further strikes, and some members are considering a vote of no confidence in Guardian editor-in-chief Katharine Viner.