Sir Keir Starmer has described journalism as the "lifeblood of democracy" and warned that artificial intelligence should not be allowed to undermine press freedom.

In an article to mark the launch of the News Media Association's Journalism Matters campaign, the Prime Minister expressed his strong support for the news media and creative industries, saying they are "central to this government’s driving mission on economic growth."

The campaign is a week-long celebration of 'journalism's importance to our democratic way of life', with hundreds of news media titles participating annually.

Sir Keir said: "There are over 900 local and national news titles in the UK.

"For all the prophecies of doom about the future of news, that represents an extraordinary strength.

"The British news industry reaches over eighty percent of the population."

However, he acknowledged the challenges facing the industry and said that "the growing power of digital technology" must not be allowed to erode press freedom.

He said: "We must remain vigilant that the growing power of digital technology does not begin to chip away at them.

"Particularly as artificial intelligence begins to transform our economy and way of life."

Sir Keir also said the government is working closely with the news and media sectors to ensure a balance in industrial policy, recognising the principle that publishers should have control over and seek payment for their work, including when considering the role of AI.

The Prime Minister added: "Not only is it essential for a vibrant media landscape, in which the sector’s provision of trustworthy information is more vital than ever.

"It is also relevant to our ongoing work to roll out the Digital Markets and Consumers Act as swiftly as possible.

"This landmark legislation will help rebalance the relationship between platforms and those, such as publishers, who rely on them."

The NMA's Journalism Matters campaign runs until Sunday.

The association is the voice of national, regional, and local news media organisations in the UK.

NMA chief executive Owen Meredith said: "This week, we are celebrating Journalism Matters week, dedicated to honouring the extraordinary work that UK journalists carry out, day in, day out – from shining a light on corruption, holding power to account and reporting from the halls of Westminster to warzones in Israel, Gaza and Ukraine, all in the public interest.

"For this vital component of our democracy to continue, the government must ensure a sustainable environment for our free press through measures such as standing up for press freedom as journalism faces an increasing array of threats, supporting our brilliant local news media which reaches huge audiences in print and digital, and maintaining our robust gold standard copyright regime to ensure content creators control use of their works as AI technology continues to develop."