George was contacted by hundreds of constituents expressing their concerns about the recent allegations surrounding News International, and in particular Rupert Murdoch and the proposed takeover of BSkyB. He was pleased to be called in the debate in Parliament yesterday, and that the motion was passed unopposed.
Yesterday, News Corporation withdrew its bid for BSkyB. George welcomed this in the light of the ongoing police investigation and the independent judicial inquiry. He feels it is clear that News International need to concentrate now on putting their own house in order rather than further expansion and profiteering. The breadth and depth of the malpractice that appears to have pervaded this organisation has shocked people up and down this country. It is important that all allegations are investigated and answered, and that all parties guilty of wrongdoing are held to account and, if necessary, brought to court, before this organisation can even begin what will be a long process of restoring its credibility.
In parliament George put forward proposals for a much more rigid enforcement of the PCC code and a system of fines and punishments for the published press.
To read a transcript of the debate click here.
George has also written a article on the issue. To read it click here.