In these most tumultuous of times, when the term “fake news” is bandied about liberally by almost everyone - including the president of the United States - accurate reporting has become more important than ever.

With a General Election only weeks away and a dizzying array of digital platforms offering news round the clock, it can be difficult for audiences to know who to trust. Only days ago, MPs criticised online behemoth Facebook for not acting quickly enough to remove fake news from its site, saying the integrity of democracy itself could be at risk if more action is not taken.

It was these issues at such a crucial juncture that prompted Newsquest, publisher of the Herald, to join an industry-wide campaign against fake news, which launches today. Despite wide cynicism, research shows that readers retain high levels of trust in local and national newspapers like the Herald; the Fighting Fake News campaign aims to harness this trust and show how journalism can help uphold democracy.

As pointed out by the Herald’s editor, Graeme Smith, this paper - now in its 235th year – has a long and proud tradition of fair and impartial coverage. And in these days of free and inferior content providers – many of whom are not subject to the same legal restrictions as the press - supporting real journalism and holding the powerful to account is vital.

The Herald has a strong reputation for both, of course. In February, our business rates campaign exposed the anomalies unfairly and adversely affecting many businesses that risked damaging the Scottish economy. Following our coverage, the Scottish Government announced a raft of measures to help businesses. Our Grey Matters series, meanwhile, was praised by politicians of all parties for its examination of the serious issues facing the country due to our ageing population.

Our journalists thrive on reporting and analysing the news that affects Scotland and its people. And we’re proud to be part of any campaign that supports and encourages good journalism across every platform.