Minister of Information and Communications Le Doan Hop praised the rapid development of the press both in terms of quantity and quality and the manner in which it has fulfilled its important role in ideology and in orienting the society in recent years.

However, while answering National Assembly deputies’ questions on Nov. 17, Minister Hop also reviewed weaknesses in the press in terms of information, which have had a negative impact on society, production and business.

In 2008 and 2009, the Ministry investigated 96 such violations, leading to the revocation of 19 press cards.

To ensure accurate information, Minister Hop asked management of agencies to increase their management responsibilities.

The minister answered questions relating to the management of content and the provision of services on the internet, as well as the planning of the telecommunication infrastructure.

Regarding the ministry’s duty in internet management, particularly online games and websites with harmful content, the Minister said his ministry issued a system of legal documents on management of the internet and continues to flesh out mechanisms and policies on the issue.

The ministry is also building draft regulations on the management of online games to replace existing Circular 60, which is expected to be submitted to the Prime Minister next quarter.

According to Minister Hop, to prevent the adverse impacts from the internet, the ministry should synchronously take three measures in the areas of administration, technology, and education, focusing on education in families, schools and social organisations to raise awareness on the use of information from the internet among the public, particularly the younger generation./.