Copeland MP Jamie Reed has today confirmed his support to the NUJ to defend local news coverage.

Speaking from Whitehaven Mr Reed said “The proposed changes to the broadcasting of local news by ITV will have a very serious impact on the level of news coverage given to the Border area. A short segment within a news programme broadcast from the North East will in no way replace Border Lookaround which has become the flagship programme of the Border region. Many people across the area are regular and faithful viewers, and appreciate the local knowledgeable content of the programme.

Lookaround provides a high quality local news service that is invaluable to many people across our area.

I have written to the Secretary of State James Purnell and OFCOM to ask them to reject the proposals from ITV”