Guardian and Observer NUJ branch statement: (9 Dec 2024)
OVER THE PAST 48 hours, journalists at the Guardian and Observer have been taking part in a historic strike to oppose the transfer of the Observer to Tortoise Media. Our industrial action was backed by 93 per cent of members and saw support from parliamentarians and union leaders, as well as prominent artists, musicians, actors and other cultural figures. We are all equally passionate about preserving the integrity of the world’s oldest Sunday newspaper.
So we were outraged to wake up to news this morning that members of the Scott Trust had chosen to approve the deal while our action was taking place. The decision to move ahead with the deal, in principle, underlined their refusal to take on board the well-founded objections and strength of opposition from journalists and readers.
This chapel is still opposed to the transfer and believes that by ramming this deeply unpopular and opaque deal through they have undermined their values and sparked a crisis in governance, a responsibility that lies at the door of the boards of the Scott Trust and Guardian Media Group. The Guardian and Observer has a long and proud history of journalists’ participation in the organisation; this has never felt more at risk. We urge the company to pause, reconsider all options and the impact this will have on the standing of the Observer and the long-term future of liberal journalism.
Two days of strikes take place next week [12-13 December] and the Guardian and Observer NUJ chapel will be meeting to consider further actions.
We are grateful for the support shown by our readers and the wider public.
© Guardian and Observer Chapel Branch
From the NUJ Magazine Branch Chair:
NUJ London Magazine branch sends warm solidarity greetings to the Guardian & Observer Chapel as you embark on strike action over the planned sale of the Observer to loss-making Tortoise Media.
We fully support the call for the board of the Scott Trust to withdraw its support for the sale of the Observer and to fully support the title and secure employment of its journalists and all other staff.
Niall Mulholland, Chair, London Magazine branch
- London Magazine Branch urges members to support the strikes.
- The picket is at King’s Place, 90 York Way, London N1 9GU. Report of the first day here.
- Tag your photos #SaveTheObserver and we’ll amplify on socials.
