Cape Town - Government is planning a meeting with senior editors to discuss perceptions that it is intent on limiting media freedom.
Briefing the media on Thursday following an ordinary Cabinet meeting, Government spokesman Themba Maseko said there was a "firm commitment" on the part of government to respect media freedom.
He said a "strong" delegation, which was likely to include a number of ministers, would represent government at the meeting with the South African Editor's Forum (SANEF), which is still being finalised.
"Cabinet re-affirmed its commitment to meet with SANEF to discuss the perception that Government is bent on muzzling the media. At this meeting, government will confirm the fact that there is neither a plan nor an intention on its part to limit media freedom because muzzling the media would be contrary to the principle of Freedom of Speech that is enshrined in the Constitution," Maseko said.
Government has been monitoring media coverage locally and internationally on the Protection of Information Bill, he added.
Under the Bill, certain information that may undermine state security would remain protected, but clear guidelines will be given as to why certain information remained classified. The Bill will also introduce penalties for the disclosure of classified information and the failure to report the possession of such information.
Concerns have been raised from some quarters that the Bill would curb media freedom.
Maseko said the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) was taking note of the media coverage the Bill received. "We acknowledge negative stories are beginning to migrate to the international sphere - it is something we are concerned about," he added.
Maseko explained that the Bill was being considered by parliament and all submissions regarding it would be taken into account.
He added that government and media needed to have a "rational debate" on what was the best model for regulating the media.
