AG clarifies PM's role with media
In response to inquiries made by the Movement for Quality Government in Israel, the attorney general clarifies the distinction between Netanyahu's official duties as PM and personal conflicts of interest.
Mandelblit made his comments in response to an inquiry by the Movement for Quality Government in Israel.
Mandelblit explained, "By virtue of his position, the prime minister is authorized to deal with matters relating to various government ministries. The fact that he no longer serves as minister of communications does not rule out his involvement in the media."
Mandelblit further elaborated that "in the field of communications, there are specific situations in which the prime minister is prohibited from being involved and recommendations have been made to him in the past.
"However, these restrictions do not encompass the entire field of communications and there are subjects in which the prime minister is allowed to be involved in without fear of a conflict of interest."
As it relates to the matter of the Israel Public Broadcasting Corporation (IPBC), Mandelblit said, "In view of the sensitivity of the matter, it was made clear to the prime minister that in addition to the opinion already offered on the subject, he should refrain from dealing with matters affecting those with whom he has personal relations. In cases involving such matters, he will have to consult with the attorney general. It has been clarified that presently, dealings related to the Israel Public Broadcasting Law of 2014, do not raise the suspicion of a conflict of interest."
(Translated and edited by Fred Goldberg)
