Murdoch closes paper as free news squeeze begins (BBC)

LONDON, England (CNN) -- Rupert Murdoch's News International, which plans to begin charging for online content, said Thursday it was to close its free London newspaper as part of cost-cutting measures.

The Londonpaper, which employs 60 editorial staff, will cease publication within a month, according to a statement.

"The strategy at News International over the past 18 months has been to streamline our operations and focus investment on our core titles," James Murdoch, who heads his father's Europe and Asia operations said.

He added that the performance of the newspaper had "fallen short of expectations", adding: "We have taken a tough decision that reflects our priorities as a business."

The Londonpaper, one of three free titles circulated to the English capital's commuters, recorded a pre-tax loss of £12.9 million ($21.2 million) last year, according to News International.
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more: http://www.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/europe/08/20/murdoch.paper/index.html




What, dispensing free bullshit's no longer a valid business model?

and all the news organizations that want to charge for it. But they've all taken a "You go first" position on it, I guess Murdoch is actually doing it.

Good luck with that, Rupert. People are already accustomed to getting information for free, only if it gives someone an inside edge they can make (Wall Street Journal) or save (Consumer Reports) money will they do it. I'm sure as hell not going to pay even a microcent for some fashionista's opinion about Michelle Obama's wearing shorts in the Arizona desert. Although I'd gladly read it for free to snort about how small minded some people are!