MEDIA FREEDOM

Early day motion 586, tabled 26 January 2009 by Austin Mitchell (Labour). Signed by 54 members.

That this House welcomes the fact that the number of journalists killed worldwide in work-related incidents during 2008 has dropped significantly to 104 from the record high of 179 in 2007 according to the report by the International Federation of Journalists, January 2009; but notes with concern that many journalists are killed whilst reporting on news stories and that local journalists covering national, local and community stories remain the main targets for deliberate attacks to intimidate and silence them; further notes that many governments around the world do not launch serious investigations into the deaths of independent journalists; believes that the freedom of journalists to work without fear is vital for any democratic society; and therefore urges the Government to use all international opportunities to support the freedom and safety of journalists worldwide.

Signatures by party: Labour 36, Liberal Democrat 12, DUP 3, Independent 2, Social Democratic and Labour Party 1.