Censorship: Golden Rules in Saigon

It was the first press conference held by Brigadier General Do Mau, Information Minister of South Viet Nam's new junta government. And for the edification of the assembled newsmen, Do Mau ticked off a few "Golden Rules" of good journalistic behavior. "Do not promote Communism or neutralism," said he. "Do not endanger national security or the army's morale. Do not spread false news of any kind. Do not slander individuals. Do not bolster vices." Asked one reporter: "Who's going to be your first victim?" Do Mau did not reply directly, but within a few hours all Saigon knew the...

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