SoE

The Society of Editors has called for assurances surrounding the future of Sky News after the announcement today that Disney has agreed a .4bn deal to buy 21st Century Fox.

The sale by Rupert Murdoch includes Fox’s 39% stake in Sky, the owner of Sky News.

Ian Murray, Executive Director of the Society of Editors said: “The Society congratulates Disney on its planned deal to buy 21st Century Fox.

“We look forward to hearing assurances, in due course, that the company will work to ensure the longevity of Sky News and will continue to support the fantastic journalism that it produces.”

The announcement of the deal said that prior to its completion, it was anticipated that Fox would take over of Sky – a deal which, subject to regulatory clearance, Fox expects to close by 30 June 2018.

Fox’s attempt to take over Sky is currently being investigated by the Competition and Markets Authority.

Disney said assuming this did complete prior to its takeover of Fox closing, it would assume full ownership of Sky.

Rupert Murdoch, executive chairman of 21st Century Fox, said: “We are extremely proud of all that we have built at 21st Century Fox, and I firmly believe that this combination with Disney will unlock even more value for shareholders.”

Disney boss Bob Iger said: “We’re honoured and grateful that Rupert Murdoch has entrusted us with the future of businesses he spent a lifetime building.”