WHAT happens when people stop asking questions? What happens when there’s no public debate – and decisions affecting all of our lives are taken without any scrutiny?

It’s a frightening scenario which is already unfolding in other parts of the United Kingdom

You don’t have to read every line of the Tribune each week or even agree with every view that is shared in these pages to understand that the work of local journalists is an important cog in making democracy work.

That’s all very good, but keeping reporters on the ground is costly and never has the industry faced such biting economic conditions. That’s why we work only to cover the costs of bringing you the news and providing a place for debate.

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