Guardian Journalists Strike Against Observer Sale

Journalists at The Guardian and Observer have overwhelmingly voted to strike on December 4 and 5, protesting the planned sale of The Observer to Tortoise Media, a startup with financial challenges. Approximately 93% of staff supported the strike, reflecting deep concerns over job security for the 70 journalists potentially transferring to Tortoise Media and dissatisfaction with the sale process. The Scott Trust, which owns the papers, is expected to back the sale despite two rival consortia expressing interest in counterbids. Tortoise's founder, James Harding, has committed to investing £25 million and maintaining current staff conditions, but concerns about the company's financial viability linger. Union leaders have issued a vote of no confidence in the Scott Trust's leadership, urging a reconsideration of the sale. Should negotiations continue without resolution, further strikes could follow, highlighting the precarious state of the media landscape.