CALLS were made yesterday for a review of three ''outdated'' laws that were seen as a possible threat to human rights.
Legislators cast doubt on the Government's advice that laws on defamation, contempt of court and reporting did not contravene the Bill of Rights.
United Democrat Martin Lee Chu-ming said the long-standing laws should be reviewed according to changes in society.
The Judicial Proceedings Ordinance makes it an offence to publish, in relation to any judicial proceedings, any indecent matter or any medical, surgical or physiological details of a ''revolting or offensive nature''.
Legislators also warned that the law on defamation might allow for government manipulation. They said prosecution guidelines on contempt of court should be issued.
Mr Lee asked why the restrictions on medical, surgical or physiological material were retained.
''It doesn't serve any purpose except to stifle freedom of expression,'' he said at the Justice and Legal Services panel meeting.
