Implementation of s 113: Lessons to Adopt, Pitfalls to Avoid and Refinements to Pursue

Abstract

AbstractBecause s 113 has been in place for some time it has much to teach us about how to design a viable regime for truth in election advertising. However, in sketching out our preferred or ideal model we offer a number of enhancing modifications to SA’s framework, some of which are inspired by practice (and shortcomings) in other common law jurisdictions. We focus here on the implementation of s 113, in particular on issues associated with: whether the publication of misleading election information should be a civil or criminal matter; timeliness and resources including ergonomic aspects of the investigation process; the notion of ‘material extent’ and its complications in determining a breach of s 113; the issue of possible unintended consequences of TIPA-type legislation; problems associated with determining the difference between purported statements of fact and opinion; legal defences; and appropriate penalties and adjudicators.