Media Bill to be debated in Parliament on March 27

Parliament will start debating the proposed Media and Defamation Bill on Monday 27 March.

Government whip Godfrey Farrugia informed the House Business Committee of the date during Tuesday evening’s committee meeting.

The Bill is intended to update laws by abolishing criminal libel, introducing a requirement for mediation before libel litigation and doubling damages awarded for libel. Moreover, the bill also seeks to better regulate web-based news agencies.

Despite the amendments, many have voiced concerns over aspects of the bill, including the proposed registration of web-based news portals.

The government however, has dismissed claims that the proposed law seeks to stifle freedom of speech, arguing that the proposed law would offer more protection to journalists.

The committee was also informed that parliament will be adjourning for Easter recess on April 12 before resuming on May 2