Workers at The Guardian and The Observer began their strike in protest of the proposed sale of The Observer to Tortoise Media, emphasizing that the process was rushed and unsupported by staff. Sonia Sodha, a columnist, noted, 'It can't be right to go ahead with a rushed sale when journalists haven't been consulted and we do not understand the logic for this.' This sentiment highlights the concerns over the impact on both publications' journalism.
The strike marks the first in over 50 years for Guardian News & Media, signaling a growing discontent among journalists regarding decisions made without their input. The Scott Trust, the owner, has been involved in discussions to ensure that it remains a major shareholder with a role in maintaining The Observer's editorial direction, stressing the importance of journalistic integrity amid ownership changes.
Journalists expressed their desire for the company to reconsider the sale, underscoring the long-standing history of The Observer, which has been in print since 1791. The plan for the sale was a surprise to many and has sparked fear about the future of both publications. Executives claim that the sale is part of a strategy to enhance international growth, but journalists remain skeptical about the implications for their work.
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