COOK ISLANDS: Cook Islands media told to accept voluntary code

The Cook Islands media is being warned that if it does not accept a code of voluntary guidelines, then the government will legislate over standards

Pacific Media Watch
Tuesday, March 16, 2004

WELLINGTON (RNZI Online/Pacific Media Watch): The Cook Islands media is being warned that if it does not accept a code of voluntary guidelines, then the government will legislate over standards.

Atiu MP Norman George says a meeting is being called for early next week to discuss the proposed changes with journalists and media company owners.

He says the government would prefer voluntary guidelines and is willing to listen to input as it doesnšt have all the answers.

But George also delivered a warning.

"We would prefer a voluntary system - voluntary guidelines but already, you know, wešve been getting indirect threats - whatever you put there, wešre not going to take any notice. Well, you know, wešll try the gentlemanly way first and if that doesnšt work, then wešll look at legislation."

George says proposed changes would be based on New Zealandšs Press Council and Broadcasting Council standards.

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Date Posted: 3/16/2004