GB News has paid more than £660,000 to Tory MPs since its launch

GB News has compensated Conservative MPs over £660,000 since its inception, a stark contrast to the £1,100 paid to Labour representatives.

This discrepancy has sparked concerns about the channel's influence on Tory politics. Amid fears that if hedge fund owner Paul Marshall—who possesses a 41% stake in GB News—acquires The Telegraph, it could amplify a single-sided political narrative.

Former cabinet members have expressed unease over a potential "Conservative media monopoly." Although other MPs, including Labour, also appear on GB News without pay, the large sums given to Tories highlight the channel's unique role in UK political media, where sitting MPs often serve as paid contributors.

Jacob Rees-Mogg tops the earnings list with nearly £325,000 last year, translating to £729 per hour for his presenting role. Lee Anderson, now an independent MP, receives £100,000 annually along with a minor fee for brand promotion. The MP couple Esther McVey and Philip Davies also feature among the top earners.

Labour MPs Rosie Duffield and Barry Gardiner are the sole members of their party paid for appearances, earning modest fees as guests. Concerns have been raised regarding GB News's adherence to impartiality rules, especially as the channel sometimes has Tory MPs hosting interviews with their peers.

Marshall's potential editorial influence is under scrutiny, despite assurances from his aides and worries about heightened populist rhetoric within Conservative circles still linger. Marshall's recent controversial social media activity was downplayed by his spokesperson, asserting it doesn't reflect his true stance.

Questions about whether Marshall's potential Telegraph acquisition would significantly alter its existing position are discussed within Tory ranks, with parallels drawn to GB News's perspective. However, the potential sale of The Telegraph and The Spectator by the Barclay brothers to a UAE-backed consortium led by RedBird IMI is undergoing investigation by Ofcom and the Competition and Markets Authority.

Reports are anticipated by mid-March, after which Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer will decide on the matter. If RedBird's bid fails, Marshall and American billionaire Ken Griffin may propose an alternative offer.

Tim Bale from Queen Mary University suggests that while Marshall's influence may echo historic relationships between the Conservatives and the media, today's social media climate plays a pivotal role in shaping political narratives.

In this competitive online environment, GB News's possible shift towards more extremist views might pressure The Telegraph to follow suit, regardless of Marshall's ownership.

GB News maintains that its editorial decisions are independent, and Marshall reportedly has no role in the content presented on the channel.