Labour MSP Karen supported a motion calling on the SNP Government to scrap proposals which would see public information notices withdrawn from local papers and posted online instead.

The motion was made by Labour MSP Pauline McNeill, arguing against a move which could end the advertising of public notices, covering everything from bin collections, jobs, and road closures to pub licences, in local newspapers.

Newspaper representatives, including Michael Johnston, divisional manager Scotland of Johnston Press, the Gazette's owner, have already addressed the MSPs to speak against the move, arguing that the loss of council advertising revenue would hit newspapers hard.

Ms McNeill's motion stated that, as 38 per cent of Scots did not have internet access, changing the status quo would create a democratic deficit, as well as damaging the newspaper industry.

The Labour motion was also backed by the Conservative, Lib Dem and Green parties and was carried by 76 votes to 48. The government proposals are currently out for public consultation.

Speaking after the Scottish Parliament debate on the issue, Karen said: "I am pleased that the Parliament has made its voice heard on this matter although I am disappointed that SNP members felt the need to vote against the motion."

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