Ministerial Statement by the Premier Dr. the Hon. Ewart Brown
MINISTERIAL STATEMENT BY THE PREMIER
DR. THE HON. EWART F. BROWN, JP, MP
PRESS COUNCIL UPDATE
9TH JULY 2008
Mr. Speaker, I rise to update this Honourable House on a Throne Speech initiative announced by this Government in February.
As you know, Mr. Speaker, we believe it is in the best interest of the country that a Press Council be established to create a code of ethics and standards for news reporting that can protect the public from irresponsible journalism while not infringing on freedom of expression.
It was our stated plan, Mr. Speaker, to have a recommended Press Council model in the public domain for consultation by the second quarter of this year. The Central Policy Unit has thoroughly researched models around the world and the Cabinet has discussed CPU’s findings, however, Mr. Speaker, we believe further investigation and deliberation is required before we solicit consultation.
Therefore, our self-imposed deadline for consultation has passed, Mr. Speaker, but our resolve on this issue has not.
Our recommended Press Council model will be available for stakeholder consultation soon, Mr. Speaker. It is an issue this Government still plans to deliver for the country.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
