Government and Opposition MPs warned on Monday that amendments to the Broadcasting Act to implement an EU directive could undermine the future of Maltese media houses.
Labour MP and television presenter Jean Claude Micallef explained during the debate in committee how the directive would limit advertising possibilities.
His concerns were echoed by Opposition MP Therese Comodini Cachia who cautioned against rushing the changes through while calling for further consultation.
In terms of the Bill, the Broadcasting Authority will also start regulating online forms of media and not only television or radio.
Micallef referred to several provisions which would eliminate any form of 'product placement' in current affair programmes, news, children’s programmes and socio-religious content.
“A presenter using a particular brand of pen or coffee is not influencing public opinion,” Micallef said.
“Let us not stifle advertising” he warned.
The MP said that over the weekend he had been approached by owners of several media companies who had expressed concern that this Bill could eradicate their major stream of revenue.
Consequently, he tabled amendments which would allow product placement...