(LANKAPUVATH | COLOMBO) – Dr. Bandula Gunawardena, Cabinet Spokesman and Minister of Transport, Highways and Mass Media, states that there is no need to suppress the media based on the Broadcasting Authority Act and if positive changes to the bill are presented, they can be discussed and carried out.
The Minister stated this yesterday (13) while attending the news conference to announce the Cabinet decisions held at the Government Information Department.
Minister Gunawardena pointed out that even though he has the sole authority to cancel a broadcasting right or grant a new broadcasting license as the Minister of Mass Media, he has never done such an act.
Nevertheless, the Minister said that in order to create an advanced media culture, some method, specification or preparation according to the international method is necessary.
The Minister recalled here that the idea of the Broadcasting Authority Act was not a sudden measure and it had been under discussion since the time of MP Prof. Charitha Herath, who was previously the Secretary of the Ministry of Media.
Accordingly, Mr. Bandula Gunawardena said that if there is any idea about this currently drafted bill, proposals can be submitted and action can be taken for consideration.
