The government said yesterday that it is committed to publishing a White Paper on freedom of information by the end of 2006.

In a statement, the government said: “The government has already stated, in this year’s Pre-Budget Document, that it will publish a White Paper on freedom of information by the end of 2006. The government remains committed to this timeframe.”

The government’s statement came days after the setting up of a Journalists’ Committee which, as one of its main aims, will lobby for legislation on freedom of information. Yesterday was also World Press Freedom Day.

The government said there will be a period of public consultation on the government’s proposals following the publication of the White Paper.

It invited anyone with comments or ideas for inclusion in the legislation to submit these now by sending them to the Office of the Principal Permanent Secretary, Office of the Prime Minister, Valletta CMR 02, or by e-mail on [email protected]