Parkinson 'concerned' about the future of media
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Chat show star Sir Michael Parkinson said today he was "concerned" about the future of the media as he was made chancellor of a university.
The 73-year-old said he was particularly interested in taking on the role at Nottingham Trent University as it is widely recognised for its broadcast and print journalism courses.
But Sir Michael, who did not go to university, said that he was worried about the future of the British media.
He said: "I am interested and concerned about the future of the media. This is the future of the media. The young people here are the ones who will give it its shape and its style.
"When you look at the debates going on nowadays about standards, and it's an on-going debate I know, I have very strong feelings about it.
"I do think that every so often we should sit down, when there's an occasion offered, and think about what we are promoting, what we are showing on television, what we are printing in newspapers.
"Are we proud of it, is that what we came in to journalism to do or have we gone along with what is trendy?
"I don't think the debate about (Russell) Brand and (Jonathan) Ross is catastrophic but it gives us an opportunity to look at where we are going."
One of Sir Michael's first tasks today was to award an honorary degree to former England cricket captain, and fellow Yorkshireman, Michael Vaughan at Nottingham's Royal Concert Hall.
The broadcaster Mariella Frostrup also received an honorary degree as did Bill Kenwright, the chairman of Everton football club.
Dame Judi Dench and television presenter Jeremy Clarkson were also recognised but were unable to attend the ceremony.
Sir Michael said he was "honoured" to become the first ever chancellor of Nottingham Trent. He accepted the post in June and today formally took on the role.
He previously said that he hoped to open doors for some of the university's media students.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments