LCR4803 Assignment 1
Semester 2 2024
, LCR4803 Assignment 1 Semester 2 2024
1.1 In 1644 Milton developed his speech theory based on a quest for the truth. This
was done to protest the licensing of publications by the government of his day.
Today, 360 years later, licensing remains problematic, although freedom of speech
has been acknowledged.
(a) What is the situation in South Africa at present regarding: (aa) the licensing of
publications, especially of newspapers, and (bb) the licensing of broadcasting
services? Explain in detail whether control is exercised over (aa) and (bb) above
licensing. Indicate whether licensing is applicable, and if so, discuss the various
aspects pertaining to licensing, for example,
(i) the categories of licenses.
(ii) the person or institution issuing the licenses.
(iii) the person or institution to whom complaints regarding the services in the case
of (aa) and (bb) should be directed.
(b) Are there valid reasons why the above approach regarding licensing should be
followed by the South African government?
(a) Current Situation in South Africa
(aa) Licensing of Publications, Especially of Newspapers
In South Africa, the licensing of newspapers is not a requirement. The press
operates under a system of self-regulation rather than government licensing. This
framework is designed to uphold freedom of speech and freedom of the press, as
enshrined in the South African Constitution. The key elements include:
Semester 2 2024
, LCR4803 Assignment 1 Semester 2 2024
1.1 In 1644 Milton developed his speech theory based on a quest for the truth. This
was done to protest the licensing of publications by the government of his day.
Today, 360 years later, licensing remains problematic, although freedom of speech
has been acknowledged.
(a) What is the situation in South Africa at present regarding: (aa) the licensing of
publications, especially of newspapers, and (bb) the licensing of broadcasting
services? Explain in detail whether control is exercised over (aa) and (bb) above
licensing. Indicate whether licensing is applicable, and if so, discuss the various
aspects pertaining to licensing, for example,
(i) the categories of licenses.
(ii) the person or institution issuing the licenses.
(iii) the person or institution to whom complaints regarding the services in the case
of (aa) and (bb) should be directed.
(b) Are there valid reasons why the above approach regarding licensing should be
followed by the South African government?
(a) Current Situation in South Africa
(aa) Licensing of Publications, Especially of Newspapers
In South Africa, the licensing of newspapers is not a requirement. The press
operates under a system of self-regulation rather than government licensing. This
framework is designed to uphold freedom of speech and freedom of the press, as
enshrined in the South African Constitution. The key elements include:
