The culture secretary and councils have sought to reassure regional newspaper owners hit by the downturn. An emergency summit, hosted by culture secretary, Andy Burnham, key media figures and the LGA examined ways to support local news providers. Mr Burnham made it clear how important local newspapers are. ‘There are real pressures facing local newspapers across the country, partly caused by the economic downturn, and partly by the transformation brought about by the digital age,' he said. ‘Today's summit will explore how we can support the local media industry in meeting these challenges. Strong local media are vital to a healthy democracy and provide a crucial and trusted service to their communities.' A member of LG Comms and head of media at Richmond upon Thames LBC, Cormac Smith, said councils would lose out if local newspapers disappeared. He said: ‘Local media are one important channel through which councils communicate as they are trusted by local people.' The Office of Fair Trading and Ofcom are undertaking a review of the local regional media sector.