Media control 'not for modern economies'

Johannesburg - Media control is not a feature of sophisticated economies, the SA Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Sacci) said on Wednesday.

"It is with concern that Sacci notes the risks of attacking the pillars on which our democracy is founded," the organisation said in a statement.

It said the Protection of Information Bill currently before Parliament had the potential to restrict access to information that should rightfully be public.

While Sacci supported the principles on which the bill was based, it remained concerned that there were too many opportunities for inappropriate implementation.

This could have the consequences of concealing commercial information thereby influencing the "competitive landscape".

In addition, international appeals not to establish a media tribunal, as proposed by the African National Congress, indicated that Sacci's concern was shared by global institutions.

Sacci said news reports relating to unacceptable behaviour in both the private and the public sectors had contributed to a stronger, more competitive business environment.

"Furthermore, interventions by the press ombudsman and available channels for litigation provide a sound basis for regulation of the press."

The rights to information and freedom of the press as entrenched in the South African Constitution made the Constitution one that was envied globally.

"Sacci also appeals to the media to ensure that honest and truthful reporting occurs and that journalists exercise appropriate care in the development of their reports," the organisation said.

Investigative journalists in particular should verify information before publication.