opponents say amendments to the civil service act could ' punish journalists ' who are currently unable to contain row over contentious plans . Plans would bar 430,000 civil servants from talking to journalists . Officials could be sacked if they found out before checking with a minister . The Cabinet Office insist that the amendment ‘ clarifies ’ current practice .
Critics say change to the civil service code could 'stifle whistleblowing ' Ministers are currently struggling to contain row over contentious plans . Plans would bar 430,000 civil servants from talking to journalists . Officials could be sacked if they speak out before checking with a minister . The Cabinet Office insist that the amendment ‘ clarifies ’ current practice .