Third International Conference on Communication & Media Studies

Abstract

A number of studies have shown the lack of diversity of opinion in the mass media in Scotland when the subject of Independence arises. Further recent revelations have also shown the way the mass media integrates their coverage with the aims of the status quo (anti-Independence minded) parties in Scotland via the so-called “Scottish Labour Christmas Box” given to the media from the Scottish branch of the Labour Party. To date, some small-scale alternative media outlets have developed, and the role and prominence of these will be covered in the analysis section. Finally, this paper examines this evidence and argues that there is a need for a stronger alternative media presence in Scotland to provide some much-needed balance to the coverage ahead of the looming Brexit and the damage it could do to Scotland, as at present Scottish voters are not getting the information they need to make informed choices.