Pays tribute to journalists working in dangerous environments, notes that 50 journalists were killed last year according to Reporters sans frontières. Mentions the establishment of the global conference on media freedom and the National Committee for the Safety of Journalists which published the national action plan for journalist safety.

Sobel emphasised that press freedom is a critical indicator of democracy. He cited examples from West Papua, Russia, China, and the UK where journalists faced persecution or were detained for their reporting activities. He also raised concerns about strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs) used to silence critics in various countries.

Shannon intervened to express support for Sobel's concern regarding the persecution of ethnic and religious minorities, noting that journalists play a vital role in raising awareness about issues like those faced by groups in China, Russia, or elsewhere.

Collins stressed the importance of protecting freedom of speech and addressing the increasing boldness with which authoritarian regimes around the world persecute journalists. He highlighted strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs) affecting UK journalists like Catherine Belton and Maria Ressa in the Philippines, and raised concerns about online suppression through social media hate mobs.

A free press is vital for democracy. The UK ranks 33rd in the world press freedom index. I urge the Government to influence Saudi Arabia, Hungary, Bahrain, India, Pakistan, and Israel to improve their media environments.

As a foreign correspondent, I have reported from various wars. Proper journalism is eye-witness journalism, which has a terrible cost. We owe a debt to those who have lost their lives in pursuit of the truth and should support real journalists.

I condemn the recent Israeli air force attacks on Gaza and focus on brave journalists exposing war crimes. Julian Assange is a journalist facing extradition to the US for his journalism, which would have a chilling effect on press freedom.

A free press is integral to democracy in ensuring transparency and accountability. In Northern Ireland, there has been an alarming rise in violent threats against journalists, particularly from paramilitaries and the paramilitary-adjacent groups who exert undue influence and coercive control over communities. The NUJ report highlighted various attacks on journalists both physically and online. Claire stresses that this situation affects public debate negatively and questions if Northern Ireland is included when discussing press freedom.

As a former journalist turned politician, Rob emphasises the importance of respecting journalists' rights to report without fear or favour. He recounts experiences from his journalism career in eastern Europe and the Middle East where colleagues faced severe consequences for their work. Highlighting recent cases globally, such as journalists being killed and imprisoned, he stresses that regimes suppress truth out of fear, leading to self-censorship among journalists. Rob concludes by noting threats faced by reporters in the UK, particularly online abuse.

McDonnell pays tribute to the NUJ's work both domestically and internationally for protecting journalists' freedom. He cites global figures indicating 235 imprisoned journalists and 42 killed in the last year due to their reporting, emphasising that fearless journalism needs protection against violence and suppression worldwide. Additionally, he criticises recent domestic incidents, including Julian Assange's imprisonment and the blocking of FOI requests by the Cabinet Office, which undermines press freedom.

Stone reflects on his personal connection to Rory Peck and discusses the need for the BBC to self-criticise before morally condemning other countries' violations of media freedom. He also addresses the special envoy's resignation due to perceived governmental breaches of international law through legislative action, advocating for stronger commitments to media freedom. Furthermore, he calls for asylum offers to Afghan interpreters who assisted British journalists during conflicts.

Dictators hate journalism; it speaks truth to power. John Nicolson cited examples from Belarus, Israel, Syria, and Northern Ireland, highlighting the dangers journalists face in speaking out against oppressive regimes or covering conflicts.

Discussed the case of Craig Murray, a former British ambassador sentenced to eight months’ imprisonment for jigsaw identification. Neale mentioned that opinion polls did not identify Murray as a source and highlighted Murray's significant role in the 2014 referendum movement.

Called for scrutiny of Government action both domestically and internationally to protect journalists. Alex supported SLAPPs legislation, condemned restrictions on press freedom by right-wing populist Governments, and praised the NUJ's efforts in safeguarding journalists' rights.

Acknowledged the dangerous global situation for journalists. John spoke about UK Government’s efforts to protect press freedom through international organisations like the G7 and the Council of Europe, and highlighted the work done by the National Committee for the Safety of Journalists.

Expressed congratulations and best wishes to GB News on its launch, acknowledging the important role journalists play in reporting news that impacts everyone's lives.