PM is “giving in” to tech giants like Google and Facebook in their bid to avoid paying media outlets to use their news. Ministers are introducing a new body called the Digital Markets Unit (DMU) to address this issue. However, after lobbying from the firms, Downing Street may allow them to launch appeals against the decisions of the DMU. Rishi Sunak is reportedly leading a drive to water down plans to regulate tech giants due to his admiration for the companies. This could make it harder for smaller companies to ensure fair payment for their content. The DMU will have legal powers to impose fines and promote fair competition. It will also investigate the algorithms used by search engines, such as Google, which are believed to favor left-leaning news organizations. The News Media Association is concerned that watering down the bill will make the DMU ineffective in tackling big tech. Senior Tory MP Damian Collins expressed concerns about a process that allows tech companies to delay decisions. The government emphasizes the importance of a free press and has implemented legal protections to support it.
For the latest headlines, follow our Google News channel
Source link