Emily Maitlis has warned greater investment in local journalism is needed to stop conspiracy theories from spreading.

In an interview with the Bucks Free Press, the former BBC News and Newsnight presenter hailed the importance of the regional press in abating the growth of fake news and called for added investment in the industry.

The journalist, pictured, left the BBC last year and has since raised concerns about both the corporation’s and other national news outlets’ coverage of issues including Brexit.

Delivering the MacTaggart memorial lecture at the Edinburgh International Television Festival in August 2022, she accused the BBC of adopting a “both-sides-ism” approach to impartiality that gave platforms to interviewees who did not deserve airtime.

Speaking to the Free Press at the Cliveden Literary Festival, Emily said: “I think the local journalists do a really important and responsible role there which is being the trusted voices of communications, interrogation, of reporting, and I think that’s where you stop conspiracy from growing and I think that is very important.

“I think what you don’t want is a big gap between what people are feeling on the ground and what people in power are telling you.

She added: “I think it is really important that we invest in local news altogther.

“You have only got to see for example what happens when the prime minister goes and talks to, whether it’s local papers or local radio stations, and people are able to ask questions that actually speak directly to their concerns locally that you understand how difficult it is often for those in power to answer the questions directly.”

Katie French, who edits the High Wycombe-based Free Press, told HTFP: “I think the local journalists do a really important and responsible role there which is being the trusted voices of communications, interrogation, of reporting, and I think that’s where you stop conspiracy from growing and I think that is very important.”

“It is heartening to hear the work of local press is recognised by a broadcasting icon like Emily Maitlis and we fully welcome her support.

“In age in which fake news and hoaxes can circulate like wildfire on social media, our job as local journalists has become even more important.

“It was great to have a brief chat about this at Cliveden Literary Festival on Saturday.”