The new head of the News Media Association has renewed calls for government action to “level the playing field” between news publishers and the big tech platforms.

Reach plc chief executive Jim Mullen, pictured, has taken over as chairman of the NMA, succeeding Newsquest chief Henry Faure Walker, while Tindle Newspapers chief executive Danny Cammiade becomes NMA vice chairman.

Mr Mullen, pictured, said: “Trusted news and information has never been more important than it is now and the NMA has a central role to play in helping to secure a truly sustainable future for journalism in this country.

“Fundamental to this will be working with government and regulators who must take the swift and decisive action needed to level the playing field between the tech platforms and news publishers.

“I look forward to continuing the excellent work that Henry has done to champion our sector during his time as NMA chairman.”

NMA chief executive Owen Meredith added: “I would like to thank Henry for his enormous contribution to the industry over the past two years and for all the time he has given personally to various NMA projects and initiatives.

“As we move forward, it is vital that we continue to make the case for news media which has a critical role to play in helping to tackle the profound challenges we face today as a society.