Argentina to tighten controls on newsprint supplies

Argentine legislators have backed a government proposal to tighten controls over the supply of newsprint. 

The bill orders the sole producer of newsprint, Papel Prensa, to operate at maximum capacity to meet demand.
Its main shareholder is the Clarin media group, long at odds with President Cristina Fernandez.

Critics say the bill is an attack on press freedom, but government supporters say it will ensure paper is available to all at a fair price.

The government-backed bill was approved in the lower house of Congress by 134 votes to 92, and is expected to pass in the Senate.

The legislation says the production, sale and distribution of newsprint is of national interest.      Read Full