I thought about writing about the Spring Budget but on reflection passed up on the opportunity, a) because it was depressing, b) because the newspapers got there first and c) before we know it there’ll be a General Election to groan about, writes David Little, a partner in our Corporate and Commercial Law team.
But mentioning newspapers reminds me that one of my friends steadfastly refuses to read them anymore. Rather than being the most ill informed person on the planet what has happened to him, since he stopped buying a paper – which he could certainly afford – is that he’s become a happier man.
The challenge this approach to current affairs has had on the media industry is dramatic. ITV reported only last week that its revenues were down due to a ‘severe decline’ in advertising revenues. Mobile phones have encouraged us to slink off into private worlds where we can play games, chat to mates or watch Swansea City 24×7.
A lot of perfectly bright people have stopped bothering with newspapers, either because they’re full of depressing news, or they don’t know which bits of them to believe. And whilst I promised not to mention the Budget again, last week was a classic example of the newspapers either applauding the Chancellor, or booing him, depending on the tribe they represented, Left, Right or Not bothered.
Another reason newspapers have diminished in importance is because their digital equivalents can tell stories instantly. In the battle for supremacy between the print versions of newspapers and their own websites, digital has won. Better still, if you’re keen to promote a story once it’s on the internet it’s there forever.
Next Sunday marks the keenly awaited derby match of the season. Swansea City play Cardiff, away. You can be sure I won’t be waiting to read the result in the newspaper. A newspaper isn’t even tomorrow’s fish and chip wrapping these days (the ink spoils the chips, for one thing).
David Little is a Partner at Bishop & Sewell in our expert Corporate & Commercial team. If you would like to contact him, please quote Ref CB457 on either on either 07968 027343 / 020 7631 4141 or email company@bishopandsewell.co.uk.
The above is accurate as at 11 March 2024. The information above may be subject to change.
The content of this note should not be considered legal advice and each matter should be considered on a case-by-case basis.
