Local newspapers are renowned for their strong campaigning and investigative journalism. Freedom of the press, so painfully won, depends on open access to information.

Now more than ever, newspapers must exercise their rights to freedom of expression by bringing news and information to the public but new Government legislation is posing a threat to that right.

There are specific laws in this country which only apply to newspapers, some of which are practical and sensible such as laws on contempt of court and the Official Secrets Act.

But new legislation, including the draft Freedom of Information Bill, threatens to restrict reporting rights, produce pitfalls for reporters and restrict information on Government quangos, NHS trusts and local councils.

This week newspapers are celebrating local newspaper week. The local press is a strong medium. It has powerful links with the local community and is deemed to be trustworthy.