SYDNEY: The Australian Broadcasting Authority (ABA) is considering raising amendments to the commercial radio code of practice with Commercial Radio Australia (CRA). The move follows ABAÕs finding that 2GB talkback host Alan Jones did not breach broadcasting standards in the so-called Òcash for commentÓ affair involving Telstra. A spokesman for the ABA said while it was not up to the authority to change the code of practice, it was considering bringing the issue up with CRA. The ABA first began the investigation in late 2002 following a complaint from the Communications Law Centre (CLC) about comments made by Jones on 2GB concerning Telstra. The complaint alleged that Jones did not disclose to listeners that Telstra had a sponsorship and advertising agreement with 2GBÕs owner, Macquarie Radio Network, in which Jones has equity. ÒThe ABA found no breach of the Broadcasting Services (Commercial Radio Current Affairs Disclosure) Standard 2000 Ð a rule specifically designed to make visible possible commercial influences on current affairs presenters,Ó the ABA said. ÒIn this case there were no hidden sponsorship arrangements Ð the agreement was between Telstra and MRN and Mr Jones was not required to make on-air disclosures of the sponsorship agreement when he mentioned Telstra. ÒThe agreement required live read advertisements by Mr Jones but imposed no editorial restrictions or obligations on him. ÒWhile Mr Jones might be seen to have a particular interest in the success of the agreement, it is not clear that his interest is significantly different from any presenter supporting the success of sponsorship and advertising on their radio service or program.Ó The investigation found that prior to the commercial agreement between Telstra and MRN, Alan Jones had made a number of on-air statements critical of Telstra, especially with respect to its fees and charges. However, from 17 July 2002, when the sponsorship deal was signed, Jones made predominantly positive commentary supporting TelstraÕs service standards, public image and credibility. The ABA said while there was no breach of the code, the existing regulatory measures aimed at promoting fairness in news and current affairs coverage merited review. ÒIn particular, extra safeguards may be required in the codes to cover a situation where a controversial issue of public importance is being dealt with and where a major advertiser or sponsor of the licensee has a particular interest in that issue.Ó The ABA also intends to review the current rules aimed at achieving a clear distinction between editorial comment and advertising material to ensure they were effective. The ABA spokesman said the reason the investigation took so long was that it was placed in order of priority, with investigations into the ownership of MRNÕs 2GB station and the Òcash for commentÓ investigation into John Laws taking precedence.
Have something to say on this? Share your views in the comments section below. Or if you have a news story or tip-off, drop us a line at adnews@yaffa.com.au
Sign up to the AdNews newsletter, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for breaking stories and campaigns throughout the day.
