In the face of cross-party pressure, the Government pledged on Wednesday night to table an amendment to legislation going through the House of Lords to block such deals.
Foreign governments will be blocked from owning UK newspapers and magazines amid concern over the proposed UAE-backed takeover of The Daily Telegraph.
She said it was 'inconceivable' a foreign government should be able to own a UK news group, telling the Lords: 'Freedom of the press is fundamental to a functioning democracy.' 'The Competition and Markets Authority would be obliged to investigate the possible merger and if it concludes that the merger has resulted or would result in foreign state ownership, influence or control over a newspaper enterprise the Secretary of State would be required by statute to make an order blocking or unwinding the merger,' he added.
Lady Stowell withdrew her amendment in light of the Government's commitment, but warned she could lay it again if necessary.
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