Section 3: News

3. News (1) Broadcasting licensees shall report news truthfully, accurately and objectively. (2) News shall be presented in the correct context and in a balanced manner, without intentional or negligent departure from the facts, whether by— (a) distortion, exaggeration, or misrepresentation; (b) material omission; or (c) summarisation. (3) Only that which may reasonably be true, having due regard to the source of the news, may be presented as fact, and such facts shall be broadcast fairly with due regard to context and importance. Where a report is not based on fact or is founded on opinion, supposition, rumours or allegations, it shall be presented in such manner as to indicate clearly that such is the case. (4) Where there is reason to doubt the correctness of a report and it is practicable to verify the correctness thereof, it shall be verified. Where such verification is not practicable, that fact shall be mentioned in the report. (5) Where it subsequently appears that a broadcast report was incorrect in a material respect, it shall be rectified forthwith, without reservation or delay. The rectification shall be presented with such a degree of prominence and timing as may be adequate and fair so as to readily attract attention. [Issue 8] I6 – 20 Revised Laws of Mauritius (6) Reports, photograph or video material relating to matters involving indecency or obscenity shall be presented with due sensitivity, due regard being had to the prevailing moral climate. In particular, broadcasting licensees shall avoid the broadcasting of obscene and lascivious matter. (7) The identity of rape victims and other victims of sexual violence shall not be divulged in any broadcast without the prior consent of the victim concerned.