SECTOR 3 3.9 The state/public broadcaster offers diverse programming formats for all interests. The MBC offers a variety of programmes in various formats. MBC tries to cater for all tastes, with soap operas, documentaries, talk shows, interviews and movies that are dubbed or subtitled. The soap operas are produced by independent production houses and feature story lines that Mauritians can identify with. Panellists felt the high concentration of religious and cultural programmes could be due to the fact that they are not considered controversial. Panellists felt that MBC was lacking in one aspect, i.e in that it does not provide live coverage of the National Assembly. Scores: Individual scores: 1 Country does not meet indicator 2 Country meets only a few aspects of indicator 3 Country meets some aspects of indicator 4 Country meets most aspects of indicator 5 Country meets all aspects of the indicator Average score: 3.5 (2008 = 3.5) 3.10 The state/public broadcaster offers balanced and fair information in news and current affairs, reflecting the full spectrum of diverse views and opinions. A panellist recalled an interview with a former Director General who stated that because written media was always against the government, the MBC would have to restore the balance. This statement probably reflects the philosophy and thinking at the MBC, whichis extremely biased in its news coverage and current affairs programming. 46 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER MAURITIUS 2010