SBA Issues Draft Code of Practice for Market Conduct in the Provision of Mass Media Services for Public Consultation

The draft Code aims to promote fair market conduct and effective competition by laying out the ground rules for fair competition. It also deals with the abuse of market power by dominant players and spells out obligations that are intended to safeguard public interest in the provision of Mass Media Services (broadcasting and print).

A draft Code was earlier issued for an initial phase of industry consultation in April this year. SBA received nine written responses representing views from various segments of the industry including broadcasting and print licensees, production houses and advertisers/media buying firms. The draft Code has been revised after taking into account the comments and views expressed.

SBA is now conducting a round of public consultation and is seeking comments on the proposed framework in the draft Code for regulating market conduct in the provision of Mass Media Services. Comments may be made on any section of the draft Code, which comprises ten sections and one appendix. All views and comments should be submitted in writing to SBA on or before 12 noon, 11 January 2003. SBA will post all views and comments received on its website.

SBA will consider the inputs from the industry and members of the public before issuing the final Code in the early part of next year. The Code will be administered by the new statutory board, the Media Development Authority (MDA), formed by the merger of SBA, the Films and Publications Department and the Singapore Film Commission.