The Independent Press Standards Organisation’s chairman has warned of the “significant challenge” online competition is posing to editorial standards after being re-appointed to a second term.

Former Justice Minister Lord Edward Faulks KC has chaired the organisation since 2020 and will now begin a fresh three-year tenure in the post.

He has had a long career as a barrister specialising in claims arising from the Human Rights Act, professional and clinical negligence, personal injury, education, police claims and public law.

Lord Faulks, pictured, was appointed to the House of Lords in 2010 and served as Justice Minister in David Cameron’s government from 2013 to 2016, but now sits as an unaffiliated peer.

He said: “Independent regulation can support the public and freedom of expression by raising editorial standards and providing a means of redress for editorial shortcomings, when they happen.

“I am pleased to be re-appointed as chairman of IPSO for a further three years. The media landscape is transforming.

“The adoption of digital technologies has had a fundamental impact on journalism. Online competition is now a significant challenge to editorial standards.

“I am confident that IPSO’s new strategic approach will ensure it is flexible and relevant to address the complex challenges facing us in the years ahead by being more accessible, responsive, and transparent.”

The appointment was undertaken by the IPSO appointment panel.

Lord Triesman, who chairs the panel, said: “Edward Faulks has led IPSO over a tumultuous three years.

“He has guided IPSO as it has responded to the challenge of the pandemic and the changes to the media landscape we are witnessing.

“With IPSO-regulated publications now reaching more people than ever across a growing number of platforms, the responsibility of the press regulator to uphold freedom of expression and protect the public has never been more crucial.

“Edward is an excellent and principled leader to meet this challenge.”