From the AFR:
Queensland MP Bob Katter appears to have thwarted Labor’s media package, saying he wants to replace the four existing bills with a super watchdog that governs media concentration and journalists’ standards.
Mr Katter hardened his stance by saying he would not support the existing proposals and would instead try to amend the one to create a government-appointed public interest media advocate with a body appointed by journalists and eminent Australians to look at limiting media concentration.
It is understood his proposal would not have enough parliamentary support to win.
Mr Katter’s commission would be appointed by a panel of 12 people, three nominated by the journalists’ union and three by the Australian Press Council. The other six would be appointed by the Council for the Order of Australia.
This is an eminently sensible solution that takes official influence out the equation may even have some effect.
