ISLAMABAD, April 19: Minister for Information and Broadcasting Sheikh Rashid Ahmed on Monday said the government would table necessary amendments in the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) Ordinance , 2002 in the next session of parliament to allow the Pakistani print media owners to operate electronic media as well.

The information minister said the cabinet has already taken a decision in this regard adding that the Pemra would convene a meeting of the authority shortly to make necessary proposals for amendments in the relevant provisions of the ordinance 2002 and Pemra Rules 2002.

The next meeting of the authority is being held on May 7, 2004 to decide about issuing licenses to those applicants who fall under the category of cross-media ownership, he said.

The amendments would reflect the decision of the cabinet in which it was decided that newspapers, magazines, advertising agencies be allowed to own and operate satellite TV channels as well.

After the authority had finalized the proposals for amendments in the Pemra ordinance, the same would be taken up as part of legislative business in the next session of parliament for enactment, Sheikh Rashid explained.

After the amendments are approved, he said, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting would notify the sequential changes in the Rules in the Gazette. Such changes would also make provisions to create a level playing field and prevent undue media concentration and unfair business practices.

This approval will, however, be subject to the necessary amendments in Pemra ordinance and rules. The authority is also likely to allow the parties to proceed to make arrangements for launching of their satellite TV channels which would come on air after the assent by parliament.

The minister said, necessary safeguards would also be incorporated in the Pemra ordinance and rules to prevent misuse of media power. Those applicants who come under cross-media ownership and had not applied for grant of satellite TV license will also be granted an opportunity to apply for a satellite TV license up to May 15, 2004 and thus be treated at a par with other applicants.

The minister said that he was taking all possible steps to develop electronic media in the country, and make Pakistan a strong regional player.