Clarification that news titles will be saved from proposals which could have “wreaked havoc” on the regional press have been welcomed by the industry’s trade body.

The News Media Association has praised the Information Commissioner’s Office after it published confirmation news organisations’ websites will not be made subject to its age appropriate code, which seeks to protect young people and children under the age of 18 from having their data details exploited on the web.

HTFP previously reported how the NMA and Society of Editors had raised concerns about the plan, warning it could end up “forcing some regional titles to fold” because publishers may face huge fines if the criteria were not met.

However, Information Commissioner Elizabeth Denham, pictured, moved to respond to the concerns by admitting the ICO should have been “clearer” on the plans.

The ICO has now published its age appropriate code of practice for online services, and has drawn up a series of FAQs with the NMA in order to help ensure the code has “proportionate implementation”.

In a statement, the NMA said: “We welcome the fact that the code makes clear that publishers which adhere to codes such as the Editors’ Code of Practice will negate the need for providers of online news to take any additional steps in relation to news content for children.

“There was a real risk that these proposals could have wreaked havoc on the industry by forcing news media websites – which to present no danger to children – to take drastic steps which would have severely impacted upon their ability to retain and grow audiences.

“We are also pleased that the ICO has recognised the vital role the news media industry plays in our society and welcome the opportunity to work with the regulator going forward to ensure that these measures do not unintentionally impact upon press freedom.”