MP urges Government to support freedom and safety of journalists worldwide

Labour MP Austin Mitchell has put down an Early Day Motion calling on the Government to support the freedom and safety of journalists worldwide.
The EDM welcomes that the number of journalists killed worldwide in work-related incidents during 2008 dropped to 104 from the record high of 179 in 2007 according to the report by the International Federation of Journalists.
But it notes with concern that "many journalists remain the main targets for deliberate attacks to intimidate and silence them; further notes that many governments around the world do not launch serious investigations into the deaths of independent journalists; believes that the freedom of journalists to work without fear is vital for any democratic society; and therefore urges the Government to use all international opportunities to support the freedom and safety of journalists worldwide".