The Radio Authority has announced the outcome of its public interest test into the proposed acquisition of the Northwest Jazz FM By the Guardian Media Group. There were concerns because the company owns the main local newspaper – the Manchester Evening News – and some felt the deal would put local media ownership into too few hands. The Authority said they considered whether or not the deal would reduce plurality of media ownership in the North-West, whether there would be a reduction in diversity in the sources of opinions expressed or information available to the public, and whether GMG ownership would bring any benefits to the local community. The Authority decided the deal should be allowed to go ahead, providing GMG agree to maintain a separate news facility with independent editorial control within Jazz FM 100.4's measured coverage area.
Jul 16, 2002
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1 min read
Guardian get Jazz FM green light
The Radio Authority has approved Guardian Media Group's acquisition of Northwest Jazz FM, on condition it maintains a separate news facility with independent editorial control.