PM marks 40 years of The Independent

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has paid a glowing tribute to The Independent on its 40th anniversary, praising its bravery, spirit and values since launch in 1986.

Burnham praises championing of democracy

Burnham said the digital news provider should be lauded for consistently championing democracy, human rights and the UK's role on the world stage.

He admires its willingness to challenge

The PM particularly admired The Independent for challenging the status quo even when it is easier not to, and for seeking different points of view.

Independence of mind resonates with Burnham

Burnham said The Independent was built around independence of mind, an idea he carries close to him. He believes too much power has been held by too few people.

“built around an idea that I carry close to me today: independence of mind”

Media must challenge politicians, including him

With trust in politics at its lowest and children pushed into echo chambers by algorithms, Burnham said media outlets must be prepared to challenge politicians, including him.

“We need media outlets that are prepared to challenge views, challenge politicians, and, yes, challenge me.”

High-profile figures send congratulations

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, novelist Sir Salman Rushdie and poet Simon Armitage are among those who have sent congratulations to The Independent.

Survey finds free thinking increasingly difficult

The Independent commissioned a survey on free thinking which found that three in four people in the UK believe it is becoming harder to think freely in today's society.