[Date]
LCR4803 Assignment 1
Semester 2 2024
QUESTIONS WITH COMPLETE ANSWERS
, 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 Licensing Situation in South Africa
(aa) Licensing of Publications, Especially Newspapers
In South Africa, the licensing of newspapers and other print media is
relatively free from government control. The South African Constitution
guarantees freedom of expression, including freedom of the press and
other media. The regulation of newspapers and print publications is
primarily self-regulatory through industry bodies.
LCR4803 Assignment 1
Semester 2 2024
QUESTIONS WITH COMPLETE ANSWERS
, 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 Licensing Situation in South Africa
(aa) Licensing of Publications, Especially Newspapers
In South Africa, the licensing of newspapers and other print media is
relatively free from government control. The South African Constitution
guarantees freedom of expression, including freedom of the press and
other media. The regulation of newspapers and print publications is
primarily self-regulatory through industry bodies.
