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i trumpets its position in Brexit debate as only British national newspaper free from political and owner interference

By Dominic Ponsford

The i newspaper today trumpeted its credentials as Britain’s “only national newspaper free from political affiliation or proprietorial interference” with a front page saying that the media won’t decide the outcome of the EU referendum.

The headline says: “The Media won’t decide this vote. You decide.”

Oliver Duff, editor of i, said: “Whatever happens on 23rd June, it won’t be the i wot won it. Some newspapers like the sound of their own voice.

“But our job is to give readers the facts – to provide unbiased, impartial coverage that might help them to make their decision. i’s You Decide campaign is about inspiring people to use the vote they have on this momentous occasion.

“Britain’s future won’t be decided by media owners, editors, big business or hysterical campaigners – but by you.”

The i was taken over by Johnston Press on 11 April after it paid Evgeny Levedev £24m for the title.

In April, following the print closure of former sister title The Independent, i grew its average daily sale by 14,500 to 284,434.

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Last month research from the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism found that national daily newspaper coverage of the EU referendum campaign was strongly biased in favour of the leave side of the argument.

Today marks the launch of a three-day editorial campaign from i.

It said in a statement: “As Britain’s only national newspaper free from political affiliation or proprietorial interference, i has strived throughout the campaign to provide the most balanced, impartial, and informative content for its readers.

“The three-day cover wrap campaign will be supported by special content throughout each edition and online at inews.co.uk, and will be supported on social with the hashtag #idecide.”

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