R
SOCIETY OF JOURNALISM & COMMUNICATION
THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG
香港中文大學新聞傳播學系系會
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on 'common sense'. We wonder how difficult it will be for one to
interpret the law. Moreover, the amended clause targets 'any person'
among 5.5 million citizens of Hong Kong. It is an infringement upon
freedom of expression.
In addition, supporters of the amended clause argued that the
Government had to control the undesirable elements who attempt to abuse
the right of freedom, to fabricate false unsubstantiated information, or
even to spread rumours that cause public fear. Their arguments imply
that the media have the intention to spread 'false news'. If it should
have been the case, why did the Chief Secretary Sir David Ford cross out
the word 'maliciously'?
to
(3) Supporters also insist that the burden of proof be rested with
the defendents because it is extremely difficult for the prosecution
demonstrate in court what is in the defendent's mind. However, should
we set up laws in a way to make prosecution easier?
potential
The mere existence of this stipulation already presents
threat to journalistic practices, and may result in strict self-
censorhsip. The public's right to know may then be infringed. In
addition, it is the professional ethics of journalists to protect their
confidential sources. Reporters may end up in prison if they are to
stick to professionalism. As a result, the number of sources decreases,
seriously affecting the flow of information in society.
that no
of
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(4) All journalists have a mission to unveil secrecies that are
major public concern and to protect the public from government
But it is an inexorable fact malpractices.
government
criticism. And we learn from the Watergate Affair and the Irangate
Scandal that 'news' denied by the Government is not necessarily 'false'.
THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG
SHATIN, N.T. HONG KONG.
TEL: 0-614642-3
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