Steven Barnett, professor of communications at the University of Westminster, comments on James Murdoch’s decision to step down as executive chairman of News International, the UK newspaper business that owns the Sun and the Times titles.
“It has been clear for some time that James Murdoch does not share his father’s passion for newspapers, so his stepping down should come as no surprise. The question still remains about how much he knew of the wrong doing at the News International titles for which he was ultimately responsible. Since he remains Chairman of BSkyB there is also the issue of whether he remains a fit and proper person to hold a UK broadcasting licence.
“In the longer term, today’s decision also raises questions about how long News Corp may continue to invest in newspapers in Britain. It is possible that The Sun may be setting sooner than we think.”
To contact Steven Barnett, please call him on 07773310078 or the University of Westminster press team on 020 7726 6111 (Westminster@.broadgatemainland.com).