Because Murdoch cut the price of the Times in 1993 initiating a price war that, according to Glover, continues, "quality newspapers (in Britain) are at least a third cheaper than in comparable countries such as Germany and Italy."

This price war is what's hurting UK's five major dailies, says Glover. Because papers can't charge more, they are losing money and are having to cut corners in other areas of their businesses that ultimately affect quality. Thus, "it is in the interests of both journalists and readers that newspapers should be able to charge more."

In his assessment, however, Glover forgets the end-target of the newspaper market; the consumer.

Circulations have been falling for years. It is widely felt that switching formats, a trend begun in the UK, provides very temporary relief. Internet news from around the world is still free. And free papers are invading the UK market as they are in many countries.

Considering all this, does Glover actually think that the consumer will be willing to pay a higher cover price?

Source: The Independent