New bill threatens media freedom, say editors

Editors from across the spectrum have called on Parliament not to pass the controversial Film and Publications Bill in its current form. They say it will severely limit freedom of speech.

In terms of the bill, newspapers and broadcasters will have to submit certain articles and inserts to the government for review before they can publish them. Media freedom is enshrined in the Constitution, but editors say new legislation threatens to clamp down on this.

The new bill aims to crack down on child pornography in everything, from cell phones to TV programmes, news bulletins and newspapers. The industry agrees this is fine, but editors say the legislation is far too broad. In its current form, newspapers will have to submit all stories on rape, sexual assault, incitement to violence and war to a classification committee.

Media houses across the country say it would be a severe clampdown on media freedom. It would also be totally impractical for newspapers and bulletins facing deadlines. Parliament's home affairs committee has promised to consider their concerns.