UK government to prohibit foreign state ownership of its newspapers

The UK government announced plans to ban foreign government ownership of British newspapers and magazines in response to criticisms over RedBird IMI's attempted acquisition of the Daily Telegraph, backed by the United Arab Emirates.

The change aims to safeguard press freedom and is expected to be added as an amendment to upcoming legislation. Despite disappointment from the UAE-funded group, Labour supports the measure, and increased bipartisan pressure has made it likely to pass.

The amendment will specifically address potential mergers by directing them to the Competition and Markets Authority for review if any deal risks foreign state control, thereby protecting UK media from external influences.