David Blunkett has praised the campaigning work of the regional press and spoken about the importance of regional newspapers in building social cohesion, tackling racism and encouraging civil renewal.

He said it was a better read than national newspapers, and more likely to be believed.

But at the same time the Home Secretary acknowledged the Home Office could be more open with the press, giving a greater recognition to the impact of Government policy on local communities.

Mr Blunkett was speaking at the Newspaper Conference Annual Lunch, where he addressed an audience of political journalists, editors and managing directors from the regional press.

He warned of the danger of a Government that pretended to have responsibility for everything, without having the power to effect change at a local level.

And he said: "I think that we underestimate the critical role of the regional and local press in this country. We forget that it's better read than national newspapers, and that it's more likely to be believed. The influence that exists in the regional press is very great indeed.

"This is a world of economic change, globalisation, Europe, devolution and of course the development of civil society - people wanting more power over their own lives. This has transformed the nature of Government; its role is in enabling and supporting rather than just doing.

"But we don't reflect that in the way we speak or work, so it's no wonder that scepticism often leads to cynicism about politics and politicians.

"I thank you for the balanced and sane reporting that makes it possible for some of us to believe that we are not insane for staying in public life and taking the criticism, along with the pleasure of being able to make a difference in other peoples lives."

He encouraged newspapers to continue to work towards improving conditions in their communities.

The Newspaper Conference comprises political correspondents and London editors from regional newspapers in membership of the Newspaper Society. They have events and lunches four or five times a year, where they meet senior politicians and other leading figures.

Newspaper Conference chairman Matthew George said: "Politicians are elected on a local basis and must be held to account for what they achieve in their constituencies as well as on a national level. The regional press is well placed to raise important local issues and it is vital that we have good access to politicians."

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