Most people think the mainland's warning to the media not to report views advocating Taiwan's independence has damaged press freedom, according to a survey.
The warning, made last Wednesday by Wang Fengchao, deputy director of Beijing's Liaison Office, stirred a storm of criticism.
The survey by the Democratic Party showed 60 per cent of the 596 respondents felt Mr Wang's remarks had hurt press freedom.
The same proportion said it had been acceptable for Cable TV to interview Taiwan's vice-president-elect Annette Lu Hsiu-lien. Ms Lu made comments appearing to support independence, sparking the warning from Mr Wang.
Almost 62 per cent said Cable TV's report did not amount to advocating Taiwan's independence.
Democrat legislator Cheung Man-kwong urged Mr Wang to withdraw his remarks.