BROADCASTING STANDARDS AUTHORITY TE MANA WHANONGA KAIPAHO

Broadcasting Standards Authority R Mann Whatwntja Kaipdho ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 1991

MISSION STATEMENT

To establish and maintain acceptable standards of broadcasting on all New Zealand radio and television, within the context of current social values, research and the principle of self-regulation, in a changing and deregulated industry.

Submitted to the Minister of Broadcasting for presentation to the House of Representatives pursuant to clause 14 of the First Schedule of the Broadcasting Act 1989.

Iain Gallaway Chairperson CONTENTS

CHAIRPERSON'S FORWARD 3

THE AUTHORITY 4 Members Extended Authority Members

CHALLENGES 5 Party Political Advertising For the Public Good Alcohol Advertising Review

COMPLAINTS 6 Overview Analysis of Decisions

REVIEW OF THE CODES 9 Alcohol Advertising The Portrayal of Violence on Television Children's Television Programme Standards

PUBLICATIONS, EDUCATION AND PROMOTION 11 Publicising Complaints Procedures School and Community Groups Codes of Broadcasting Practice for Radio and Television

RESEARCH 12 Commissioned Research Reference Library Local Consultations Study Trips

ADMINISTRATION AND PERSONNEL 13 Meetings Review Personnel

APPENDICES 15 Complaints Determined hy the Authority Financial Reports

The annual financial reports have been published separately and can be obtained from the Authority, as can the other material mentioned in this document, by writing to

Broadcasting Standards Authority PO Box 9213 Wellington New Zealand or by calling in to the offices at 2nd floor New Zealand Lotteries Commission Building 54-56 Cambridge Terrace Wellington Phone (04) 3829 508 Fax (04) 3829 543 CHAIRPERSON'S FOREWORD

The Authority has completed its second has already assessed quickly and clearly his year which has proved to be even more requirements for the broadcasting industry arduous than its first because of the volume but who is ready and willing to consult and complexity of its workload. with us and listen to us when necessary. Its responsibilities under Part VI of the Finally, I take this opportunity of thanking Broadcasting Act 1989 were oppressive my fellow members, Mrs Jocelyn Fish (who indeed, and it will seek to have this area of acted as Chairperson during my overseas its activities removed before the lead up to study trip), Jan Hardie and Joanne Morris the next elections. Fortunately we contin­ for their total support and industry at all ued to have the services of our extended times and my Executive Officer Gail Powell Authority members, Messrs David Beatson and her staff for their loyalty and dedica­ and Lloyd Falck, whose contribution was tion throughout a very busy year. invaluable. Resulting from last year's elections the Rt Hon Jonathan Hunt was replaced as Minister of Broadcasting by the Hon Maurice Williamson. On behalf of the members of the Authority I express my appreciation to the former for his interest, encouragement and support during the first year of our existence. We also welcome the Honourable Maurice Williamson who Chairperson THE AUTHORITY

Members represent both * a geographical and age Jan Hardie, Jocelyn Fish, Iain Galloway and Joanne Morris spread and collectively have a wide range of MEMBERS Ms Jan Hardie, B.Ed., a trained teacher from Christchurch, has had experience in experiences and perspec­ Collectively Members of the Broadcasting children's television production, bicultural tives. Standards Authority have a wide range of issues, media and parent education and interests and experiences. community action. She currently is a sport The Chairperson, Mr Iain Gallaway, administrator and coach. Q.S.O., M.B.E., a Dunedin barrister and Ms Joanne Morris, LL.M. (Hons), formerh solicitor has been Chancellor of the Angli­ a university senior law lecturer from can Diocese of Dunedin for 30 years and Wellington, chaired the Ministerial Inquin has been involved with numerous national into Pornography and is currently a charitable trusts. He has had almost 40 member of the Waitangi Tribunal. years experience as a sports and current affairs commentator, principally on radio Members have been appointed for stag­ but also on television, and served on the gered terms of one to three years and Ms board of the Broadcasting Corporation of Morris, originally appointed for one year, New Zealand for two non-consecutive was reappointed in June 1990. terms. Mrs Jocelyn Fish, C.B.E., J.P., B.A., a farmer EXTENDED AUTHORITY and trained teacher from the Waikato, is the MEMBERS immediate past president of the National For the implementation of Part VI relating Council of Women of New Zealand. She to allocation of broadcasting time and has served as an elected representative in funds to political parties during election local government and as an appointee on campaigns, two additional members the Film Censorship Board of Review. She Messrs Lloyd Falck and David Beatson currently is Deputy Chief Commissioner of were appointed to the Authority. the Transport Accident Investigation Commission. CHALLENGES

After a stimulating and challenging first A further difficulty arose unexpectedly year in which the Authority laid its when, after the Authority had made the foundations and explored the range of its allocations, the New Zealand Party became work, it hoped for a relatively routine ineligible for its allocation of funds, because second year which would provide time for it did not field the required number of consolidation. However, when reflecting on candidates. As a consequence, the Author­ its achievements and accomplishments, it ity had to re-allocate those funds and it was becomes clear that the second year has been at this reallocation stage that the only legal even busier and more challenging than the challenge to the Authority's decisions was first year! made. An injunction to prevent the Au­ Three challenges stand out. thority's reallocation, in the manner determined by the Authority, was unsuc­ cessfully sought in the High Court by the PARTY POLITICAL • a very busy and NewLabour Party. ADVERTISING lallenging year three Although it was a thankless task, the lallenges stand out. In November 1989 the Authority began to Authority was both pleased and satisfied study its functions under Part VI of the that it fulfilled its responsibilities with very Broadcasting Act 1989 - the allocation of the little criticism from the public, the broad­ funds appropriated by Parliament to casters or the political parties concerned. political parties for the purchase of time on There was considerable sympathy for the radio and television for party political Mana Motuhake Party which did not advertising. The Authority had anticipated receive any allocation but fortunately it was that this would be a very demanding and widely recognised that this was due to the difficult task and when it began to imple­ eligibility criteria in the legislation and not ment its responsibilities, it also found the Authority's interpretation or implemen­ numerous difficulties with the legislation. tation of the Act. Partly as a result of the Authority's recom­ The Authority gratefully acknowledges the mendations, Part VI of the Act was assistance of the two Extended Authority repealed and replaced in March 1990. members who were appointed, as required However, for reasons independent of the by the Broadcasting Act for all matters Authority, Part VI was again repealed and pertaining to Part VI, by the then Prime replaced in August 1990. Minister and the Leader of the Opposition, Not surprisingly, the two changes to the Mr Lloyd Falck and Mr David Beatson. legislation - after it began to implement Part Without their invaluable contributions, the VI of the Act - compounded the Authority's process would have been much more difficulties in this area and several steps onerous for the Authority. It also acknowl­ taken before each repeal had to be repeated. edges the contribution and support it Although this required a number of extra received from its consultant, Mr Ian meetings, the Authority was careful to McLean, former secretary of the BCNZ, ensure that everyone involved was kept whose ability and experience, in addition to fully informed of all stages of the process his meticulous attention to detail, were also and, in turn, that the Authority was fully invaluable. aware of the views of all the political parties and broadcasters. FOR THE PUBLIC GOOD Court. The Authority first decided the complaints from The Treasury and the A second major challenge for the Authority Business Roundtable, neither of which had was the determination of the series of commenced court proceedings. After complaints emanating from the widely further deliberation, the Authority deter­ publicised Frontline programme "For the Public Good" which screened on TV1 on mined all aspects of the remaining April 29,1990. By the end of June, the complaints which did not involve matters Authority had received the first of seven of disputed fact. It decided that those lengthy and detailed complaints arising complaints involving questions of factual from this programme. The issues involved disagreement should be resolved by the were extremely complex and the Authority High Court and those parts of the com­ plaints have been deferred accordingly. Although a very daunt­ met many times before issuing its decisions, the first two in December and the remain­ ing task, the Authority ing in April 1991. ALCOHOL ADVERTISING believes that its review REVIEW Two additional members were co-opted to of the alcohol advertis­ assist the Authority in the determination of The third major challenge for the Authority ing code will, in the end, these complaints, Sir David Beattie, a this year has been its review of the Alcohol be judged to be fair and former Governor-General and High Court Advertising Code. In 1989 the Authority Judge, and Mr Geoffrey Whitehead, former identified three priority areas in the Codes c open. Chief Executive of Radio New Zealand and Broadcasting Practice for review: (1) restric­ of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. tions on the promotion of alcohol (2) the Their expertise was of great assistance portrayal of violence and (3) the protection during the Authority's consideration of the of children. intricate broadcasting and legal issues. The details of these reviews will be coverec Two important issues had to be resolved in a later section of this report. before the Authority could begin consider­ The Authority recognised from the outset ing the myriad of details contained in the that alcohol advertising is a very sensitive complaints. The first was whether to hold issue and attempted to be very open and formal hearings, as requested by some of even-handed in the process. The Authority the parties. After carefully considering all believes that as the review has progressed arguments, the Authority decided not to the concerns of those parties who ques­ hold formal hearings but to determine the tioned the Authority's procedures have complaints "on the papers". eased and that the review has proceeded ii The second was that of concurrent jurisdic­ a way which, we trust, will be judged to be tion, as some of the complainants also filed fair and open and conducted with integrit] claims for substantial damages in the High COMPLAINTS

Having rapidly accumulated experience However, the Act provides a right of and a base of decisions relating to many of appeal to the High Court against a decision the standards in the Codes of Broadcasting or order made by the Authority and the Practice, the Authority this year has been Authority therefore offers no apology for able to issue its more straightforward the care taken and the detail provided in its decisions with increasing efficiency. It has decisions. To the best of its knowledge, no also added to its number of benchmark other similar body in any country is subject decisions. In the future it hopes that it will to this provision other than, of course, the be able to issue even briefer decisions, inherent right of judicial review. referring to these earlier and fuller deci­ sions as precedents. OVERVIEW There has been some criticism of the length A full list of the decisions can be found in of time taken from the date a programme is the Appendix but the Table on the follow­ screened until the Authority's decision is ing page provides an interesting overview. published. There are a number of reasons In the year ended 30 June 1991, the Author­ contributing to this delay. In the first place, ity determined 45 complaints and 26 the Broadcasting Act allows the complain­ complaints are at present being processed. ant 20 working days to lodge a complaint A further 6 complaints are in abeyance. A and the broadcaster 60 working days to total of 77 in one year may or may not be respond to the complaint. The complainant considered a large number of formal then has a further 20 working days in complaints which broadcasters have not which to refer his or her complaint to the been able to resolve to listeners' or viewers' Authority. This means that more than four satisfaction. However, it is pertinent to months may pass from the time the point out that at the end of June there are programme in question is screened until no fewer than one hundred radio broad­ the complaint is first seen by the Authority. casters and three national television The Authority then allows the parties full broadcasters, plus the subscription service opportunity to make submissions and, in offered by Sky Television, and Canterbury \ total of 77 complaints the interests of justice, the submissions are regional television operating in New referred to the parties for further comment. tave been determined or Zealand. There have been lengthy delays in obtain­ ire in progress. Because the complaints upheld by the ing responses from some broadcasters, Authority receive much more media primarily TVNZ Ltd, which has taken four attention than those it declines, many to five months, and sometimes six, to people are surprised to learn that the respond on a number of occasions. The Act Authority has in fact declined significantly does not provide for any time limits but it more complaints than it has upheld. does state that both complainant and broadcaster shall be allowed reasonable As also can be seen from the table, the opportunity to make submissions in Authority has only made orders requiring a writing and it also specifies that the broadcaster to make a statement on the air, Authority shall give proper consideration usually a correction, in eight cases. It has to a complaint and observe the principles of used its more powerful sanction, that of natural justice. The Authority has decided removing advertising from the air, only that a maximum of 60 working days is once - in the decision on the New Zealand generally sufficient time for responses and Business Roundtable complaint about the has notified broadcasters accordingly. It is "For the Public Good" Frontline pro­ believed that they will respond responsibly. gramme. In the Authority's view, This practice should also contribute to broadcasters are endeavouring to maintain reducing the time required to issue a acceptable standards in their broadcasts decision. and the Authority commends broadcasters for their vigilance. ANALYSIS OF DECISIONS

TOTAL

JULY 1990 - JUNE 1991 - 45 Decisions Issued JULY 1989 - JUNE 1990 - 12 Decisions Issued

Basis of Complaint (1989 -1990 figures in brackets)

Balance/Unfair TOTAL Inaccurate Reporting Privacy

Declined 25 (6) 12(-) 1(1) Upheld (all or in part) 19(6) 13 * (1) -(1) Declined Jurisdiction 1(")

Alcohol Advertising Violence Sexism

Declined 1(3) -(-) -(-) Upheld (all or in part) 1(2) -(1) -(1)

Racism Other Good Taste &Decency (including language) Declined 1(-) 2H 8(2) Upheld (all or in part) 2H 2H 2H Declined Jursidiction 1(")

* All nine orders made by the Authority related to complaints about balance, fairness and accuracy. Eight orders required the broadcast of a correction and one awarded $500 costs to the complainant.

Advertising Decisions (excluding promotional advertising) (1989 - 1990 figures in brackets)

Total Alcohol Product Political

Declined 3(3) 1(3) 1 (-) 2H Upheld (all or in part)- 5(3) 1(2) 3(1) K-)

By Broadcaster and Programme July 1990-June 1991

Docu­ Total News Frontline Holmes Advertising Talkback Other TVNZ mentary

Declined 20 1 6 2 2 2 7 Upheld (in part) 14 3 4 3 2 2 Declined Jurisdiction 1 1

TV3

Declined 2 2 Upheld (in part) 2 1 1 (alcohol)

RNZ Declined 1 1 (alcohol) Upheld (in part) 2 1 (political 1

Private Radio Declined 2 1 1 Upheld (in part) 1 1 REVIEW OF THE CODES

In July 1989 when the Authority approved liquor industry and advertisers. Such the Codes of Broadcasting Practice for Radiointemperat e comments contributed nothing and Television it did so on an interim, pro towards the Authority's efforts to conduct a forma basis and said at the time that it fair and thorough enquiry. However as would examine in detail each of the codes time progressed the Authority has estab­ in due course. Three areas were given lished a good working relationship with all priority: parties involved in this review. Because of the interest in this matter, the hree codes were given 1. restrictions on the promotion of liquor Authority extended its closing dates for formal submissions until the end of January Hority for review: 2. the portrayal of violence on television 1991. It then invited representative groups Icohol advertising, and of the various sectors - advertising, liquor ievision violence and 3. children's TV programme standards. industry, broadcasting, health groups and lildren's programme community lobby groups - to present their submissions orally to the Authority. andards. All three are specifically named in the Fourteen submissions were heard over two Broadcasting Act as areas in which the days in March and April of this year. In Authority must encourage broadcasters to addition it also listened to and read the develop and observe codes of broadcasting comments of persons who attended the practice. Authority's public consultations on broadcasting concerns in rAinedin and ALCOHOL ADVERTISING Hamilton and on the Turangawaewae When one of the major broadcasters Marae. requested that this area be examined - both After the hearings were completed, the because the current code was being Authority prepared a position paper to extended in its interpretation by some discuss with broadcasters. This it has done broadcasters to the extent that made a and has invited broadcasters to draft a mockery of the existing codes - and because revised code for consideration by the it wished the restrictions in the current code Authority. to be eased, the Authority was more than ready to treat this as a priority. It first THE PORTRAYAL OF reviewed the research literature regarding the impact which advertising of alcohol has VIOLENCE IN TELEVISION on attitudes and behaviour and examined The Authority's own research released in rules elsewhere regarding the promotion of August 1990 disclosed that television alcohol on radio and television. It then violence is one of the most important issued a discussion paper which identified concerns mentioned spontaneously by New those areas which, in the Authority's view, Zealand television viewers. In their required examination. discussions with individuals and commu­ nity groups, members of the Authority and The public was invited to respond through politicians are constantly told that people either formal submissions or informally are worried about the amount of violence through letters and the Authority received portrayed on television. Consequently the hundreds of letters about alcohol advertis­ codes about the portrayal of violence were ing in addition to 66 formal submissions. It chosen as a priority for review. was disappointed to read outspoken criticism of the Authority in the media The Authority followed much the same emanating from representatives of the process as in the review of the alcohol advertising codes. It first studied the the other code reviews. Instead the Authc massive body of literature relating to the ity has sought to facilitate the sharing of impact which the watching of television ideas among broadcasters, community violence has on viewers. Then it set out in a interest groups with an interest in discussion paper the questions it felt childrens' programmes and members of t required answering and invited the public Authority, in the hope that a consensus, o to make its views known to the Authority, at least a position acceptable to all parties, either informally or through formal would evolve. submissions. It planned to hold a national The Authority first published a discussioi seminar in March to stimulate a well- paper which presented both desk researcl considered and informed public debate and the views of some New Zealand about this very important issue. However, community and media groups relating to due to budget cuts, the seminar was the standards of children's television postponed until July 1991. programmes. It then invited broadcasters The seminar will provide all the interested and other interested parties to respond to The national seminar on parties with an opportunity to hear both the discussion paper. The views of commi television violence will the latest research perspectives from nity groups and individuals were aired distinguished authorities from the UK and during the local consultations and a be one of the highlights Australia and the perspectives of the New national workshop, involving representa­ of next year's work. Zealand people most concerned - broad­ tion from a wide range of community casters, parents, educationalists, and those groups and broadcasters, was held in involved in coping with violence in our connection with the seminar on television community. After hearing each other's violence in July 1991. A key part of that perspectives, it is hoped that all the parties workshop was an address by Barbara will have a better understanding of the Biggins who is a leading Australian complexity of the issues and the difficulty proponent of the need for age specific, the Authority faces in assessing the present diversified quality children's program­ codes. ming. Members will then review the existing The Authority has already received a codes regarding the portrayal of violence commitment from TVNZ and TV3 to on television and refer any inadequacies to provide more on-screen consumer inform the broadcasters. tion about the classification of programmi and the "watershed" for adult pro­ CHILDREN'S TELEVISION grammes, so that parents can make informed choices. It is now ready to discu PROGRAMME other childrens' programme standards STANDARDS matters in more detail with the television In its review of this code the Authority has broadcasters. not followed quite the same process as with PUBLICATIONS, EDUCATION AND PROMOTION

In the Authority's opinion, viewers and but most broadcasters have co-operated listeners are the vital ingredient in ensuring with the Authority in its campaign and that broadcasters maintain acceptable provided discounted advertising space for standards. Indeed, the pressure on broad­ the Authority's advertisements. casters from the public is likely to have Last year the Authority published a more immediate and direct impact on brochure and a poster, in the English, standards of broadcasting than an inde­ Maori and Samoan languages, which it has pendent statutory body. Consequently, the continued to distribute widely to broadcast­ oth the Authority and Authority believes that part of its role is to ers for use when answering enquiries, and •oadcasters have a raise public awareness about broadcasting to community groups, libraries and other standards and to encourage and support atutory obligation to public forums. the media education initiatives of commu­ Micise complaint nity groups and schools. SCHOOL AND 'ocedures. COMMUNITY GROUPS PUBLICISING The Authority encourages invitations from COMPLAINTS school and community groups to speak PROCEDURES about standards matters. It particularly When a Parliamentary Select Committee commends the efforts of those community was receiving submissions from the groups which focus on media issues such Authority on television violence, one of the as the Children's Television Foundation, committee members suggested that the Children's Media Watch and Media Aware. Authority was "the best kept secret in It is vitally important that the members of town." The Authority accepts that there the public be kept informed of standards may be some truth in that remark. How­ issues and that they have the opportunity ever, it observes that not only the Authority to debate standards issues and to plan but also broadcasters have a statutory effective ways of communicating their obligation to publicise the procedures for concerns to broadcasters and to the making formal complaints. Authority. The Authority has not been able to launch a large campaign for publicising its com­ CODES OF BROADCASTING plaints procedures because of the PRACTICE FOR RADIO considerable expense involved, but it has AND TELEVISION advertised on several occasions in the print media nationwide and has organised a The Authority is in the process of updating modest radio and television campaign on the Codes which it published in its first year all radio stations throughout the country and distributed to all public libraries and and on TVNZ and TV3. It has no authority tertiary institution libraries. Copies of the enabling it to ensure that broadcasters are Codes can also be purchased from the themselves fulfilling their obligations to Authority. publicise the formal complaint procedures RESEARCH

In addition to assessing the issues raised in impact of the violence on the viewer. The the determination of complaints and results of this complex and sophisticated reading and listening to public views and research will be announced at the Nationa submissions, formal and informal, the Seminar on Television Violence. Authority has studied the research findings from around the world but particularly REFERENCE LIBRARY from the UK, Canada, Australia and the As an extension of its role in conducting USA. It has also enthusiastically fulfilled research, and as the only public or statutoi one of its functions specified in the Broad­ body with that function in broadcasting casting Act, the commissioning of research. standards matters, the Authority has begu to assemble a modest reference library on COMMISSIONED An analysis of the standards matters which it makes availabl violence content on the RESEARCH to interested parties. three main channels As noted earlier, the Authority commis­ over one week was the sioned a public opinion survey which LOCAL CONSULTATIONS focused on the public's attitudes and As part of its efforts to understand the major research this perceptions of violence on television. This public's expectations and views, the year. was a nation-wide telephone survey which Authority organised three local, informal attempted to look at this complex issue hearings which were advertised widely in from a contextual perspective. The Author­ the communities involved. People were ity also commissioned a study of Key invited to share their views on any stand­ Informants from the Alcohol and Commu­ ards matters with members of the nity Health Research Unit, attached to the Authority. The first one was held in Auckland University Medical School. This Dunedin in September 1990 and the secon research assessed what persons involved in in Hamilton in November. The third was education and the advertising and market held on the Turangawaewae Marae as par research industries think the impact of of the Authority's efforts to understand th alcohol advertising has on young people. The Authority's discussion paper on Maori perspective on television standards Children's Television Programme Stand­ matters. ards canvassed the views of some of the The Authority is very grateful to all those community groups involved in media people who made the effort to share their issues, reviewed the literature and summa­ views with the Authority, at local consulta rised what is happening in other countries. tions or through informal letters or formal submissions. The major piece of Authority research this year was commissioned through the STUDY TRIPS Educational Research and Development Centre at Massey University. Three senior One of the most useful sources of informa­ lecturers in education and a statistician tion for the Authority this year has been th were asked to develop a scale for measur­ Chairperson's study trip to Canada, the UI ing the amount of violence portrayed in and Sweden to examine standards issues - television programmes and then to analyse particularly the procedures for formal the violence content on the three major complaints, self regulation and the role of channels over one week. This research also statutory bodies in alcohol advertising anc examined the violence level for each type of the portrayal of violence. It has been very programme and measured the subjective important to the Authority to compare anc to understand the practices elsewhere and serves the public best is a combination of to learn of new and alternative perspec­ self-regulation and an independent tives. In addition to the wealth of statutory body which generally serves as an information and material which has been appellate body. It remains convinced that gleaned and gathered, a personal relation­ advertising is an essential element in ship has been established with the broadcasting and that whilst it is proper he study trips of the regulatory bodies, broadcasters and that an industry authority should consider complaints against advertisers in the first hairperson and advertisers in these countries which should prove invaluable in the future, particularly instance, the Authority should remain as an tecutive Officer have with regard to the exchange of information. independent appellate arbiter. This is the '.en a source of much position in the UK, Canada and Sweden The Executive Officer also explored a where complaints can be made direct to the zluable information number of these issues in North America, Government appointed statutory bodies, at the end of a personal trip. td understanding. either in the first instance or where the As a result of observing the procedures complainant is dissatisfied with a broad­ elsewhere, the Authority feels confident in caster's response. confirming its view that the system which

ADMINISTRATION AND PERSONNEL

Members' and staff's expectations that, and money to political party advertising. In after the high level of activity of the first addition members have spent long hours year, work loads would diminish to a more studying the large amount of documenta­ manageable level, proved unrealistic. Staff tion connected with each complaint and the have continued to give an impressive enormous body of research information performance at this consistently high pace relating to its priority areas. It is fortunate of activity. The full workload of the that they have been able to give this Authority and the small number of persons amount of time to the Authority's work. serving it is responsible for the persistent pressure. The variety of challenges, REVIEW although demanding, are also exciting and the staff and members of the Authority In February the Minister of Communica­ continue to work together well, respecting tions, the Hon Maurice Williamson, the experience and contribution of each informed the Authority that it would be person in the team and enjoying the degree reviewed by officials of the Ministry of of autonomy which each has in the per­ Commerce. He raised a number of issues formance of his or her duties. and invited the Authority's response. The Authority was also assured that various groups representing the public would be MEETINGS consulted as well as broadcasters, advertis­ This financial year members have met on ers and other industry interests. Members 29 days to consider standards issues plus 9 and staff will be relieved when the outcome days on matters relating to allocating time of the review is known. PERSONNEL The Authority lost a key staff person, the Advisory Officer, Mr Alan Doyle, midway through the year, when he left to accompany his wife to a diplomatic post overseas, but was fortunate indeed to find a replacement of the highest quality in Dr Michael Stace. It also appointed a pa time research officer, Ms Jacquie Naismith, who has been a welcome addition to its staff.

The Authority has a small Executive Officer Gail Powell, M.A. staff who have multiple Advisory Officer Dr Michael Stace LL.M., D.Jur. roles. (complaints) (since January) Alan Doyle LL.M. (until February) Research Officer, part time Jacquie Naismith B.A., Dip. Ed. (research administration) (since September) Administration Officer Ann Hensley (clerical and financial administration) Secretary/Clerical Assistant Deborah Houston Receptionist/WP Operator Caron Mills (until June) (shared with NZ On Air) Madeline Palmer (since June)

With a total of only four full time staff and two part time staff, the Authority does not have th luxury of employing specialist staff and, because of financial restrictions, its ability to use outside consultants is curtailed. Consequently, the staff are required to do a multiplicity of jol which they complete with versatility and efficiency. The work completed during the first year in respect of the comprehensive personnel policy h achieved its purpose and with some minor fine tuning this year the Authority feels comfort­ able that it is meeting its statutory and moral obligations to be a good employer. The assistance of Mr Ian McLean with the requirements of Part VI has been acknowledged earlier. The Authority also wishes to acknowledge the assistance of Mr Brian Fisher who is responsible for the Authority's financial reporting. The offices provide a comfortable and enjoyable working environment for the staff and members. Sharing office and meeting space with New Zealand On Air also continues to be a satisfactory arrangement which not only allows both organisations to have extra space but al; provides for a more dynamic atmosphere and a useful exchange of information and ideas. APPENDIX 1 COMPLAINTS DETERMINED BY THE AUTHORITY

OMPLAINANT PROGRAMME NATURE OF COMPLAINT DECISION

A. Papprill 'Tomorrow's Schools" Lack of balance and dealing with Not upheld Frontline, TVNZ persons unfairly No: 13/90

3up Opposed to Advertising Testimonial cricket match Breach of liquor advertising rules Upheld [uor (GOAL) TV3 No: 14/90

Brian Perry Item on Holmes about 6B Factual inaccuracies, unfair and Upheld, Costs of $500 awarded Limited, TVNZ unjust treatment of Dr Perry No: 15/90

in Richard Prebble Items on Holmes and TVI10 pm FactuaNewsl inaccurac y and lack of Upheld in part, Broadcast of correction about selection of Labour Party Te balance ordered, No: 16/90 Atatu candidate, TVNZ

)AL DB Draught Ltd advertisement on IZB Breach of liquor advertising rules Not upheld RNZ No: 17/90

Bruce Beetham 3 National News coveragLace okf of balance Not upheld Beetham budget, TV3 No: 18/90

', National Party Labour Party advertisement on 2ZB Misleading Upheld, Broadcast of apology ordered RNZ Apology requested No: 19/20

i Judy Malone "Murderers Among Us: The Story of Broadcast of advertisements Not upheld Simon Weisenthal" during programme not in good No: 20/90 TVNZ taste

'. Mining and Exploration "Prospects" Lack of balance in documentary Upheld sociation Inc TVNZ No: 21/90

"Prospects" Lack of balance, factual Upheld in part Roger Gregg TVNZ inaccuracy in documentary No: 22/90

Labour Party advertisement False, misleading and deceptive Not upheld National Party TVNZ No: 23/90

Listener advertisement about the Factual inaccuracy Upheld H.E. Jensen Maori battalion, TVNZ No: 24/90

3 National News about thNoe ttortur in gooe odf taste, children should be Upheld in part s Sonia White AIDS carrier, TV3 protected, excessive violence No: 25/90

'Tor the Public Good" Factual inaccuracy, lack of balance Upheld, Broadcast of correction ordered ' Business Roundtable Frontline, TVNZ and TVNZ ordered to refrain from broadcasting advertising programmes for one evening. No: 26/90 e Treasury 'Tor the Public Good" Factual inaccuracy, lack of balance, Upheld, Broadcast of correction Frontline, TVNZ deceptive programme practice ordered. No: 27/90 nety for the Promotion of "Safer Sex" Lack of good taste and decency, lack of Not upheld mmunity Standards TVNZ balance No: 28/90

John O'Neill "Safer Sex" Lack of good taste and decency, failure Not upheld TVNZ to maintain law and order, lack of No: 29/90 balance

)RSO (Inc.) Frontline programme on CORSLacO k of balance, factual Not upheld TVNZ inaccuracies No: 30/90

• Graeme Cook Fair Go item on Barr Cook Invasion of privacy Not upheld Enterprises Ltd, TVNZ No: 1/91

' E. Linney Editorial comment on broadcasting Lack of balance, factual Not upheld licensing fees, 99FM inaccuracy No: 2/91

• G.B. King Screening of the film 'Jagged TVNZ's action when upholding the Not upheld Edge, "TVNZ complaint insufficient to ensure that No: 3/91 accepted norms of decency are maintained.

• Cliff Turner Display of bloodstain on One NetworkLack of good taste and decency Not upheld News, TVNZ No: 4/91 i Anna Coffey Screening of the film "Caged Dissatisfied with TVNZ's action when Not upheld Hear, TVNZ upholding good taste and decency No: 5/91 complaint

• A.M. Dewar Item on News and comment by MrLac Bilkl of balance, impartiality and Not upheld Ralston, Nightline, Gulf War, fairnesTV3 s No: 6/91

• Liam Wright Item on Holmes about follow-up Factuaon thel inaccuracies and misleading Upheld, Broadcast of correction Cartwright report TVNZ ordered, No: 7/91 Mrs Shirley Earlly Talkback host's comments about Lack of balance and factual Upheld in part security for one psychiatric patient Inaccuracies No: 8/91 Radio Pacific

Mr Martin Hine Crimewatch, TVNZ Rape reconstructions invite imitation Not upheld, No: 9/91

Sudafed advertisement, Use of the Dam Busters' theme not in Not upheld Mr Leonard Burbridge TVNZ good taste No: 10/91

Interview on Holmes with alleged bird Lack of good taste and decency and Not upheld Mr G.A. Town smuggler, TVNZ failure to maintain law and order No: 11/91

"Ever Decreasing Circles" Reducing the length of a repeat Not upheld Mr J.E. Tregurtha TVNZ broadcast but not advising viewers in No: 12/91 bad taste and dishonest

Mr C.L. Robertson Interview on Holmes reporting the Aids Factual inaccuracy and lack of balance Not upheld Foundation's dissatisfaction with the No. 13/91 Bill of Rights, TVNZ

Housing Corporation Interview on Holmes with Minister of Factual inaccurary and lack of balance Upheld in part, Broadcast of correcti Housing (Rt Hon ordered, No: 14/91 Jonathan Hunt), TVNZ

Mrs E. Dunckley TVNZ's editing practices Factually inaccurate not to advertise Referral declined, No: 15/91 reductions

Hon Sir Roger Douglas "For the Public Good" Factual inaccuracies, lack of balance Not upheld in part, Balance deferred Frontline, TVNZ pending outcome of defamation proceedings, No: 16/91

Hon Richard Prebble "For the Public Good" Factual inaccuracies, lack of balance Upheld in part, Balance deferred Frontline, TVNZ pending outcome of defamation proceedings, No: 17/91

Hon David Lange "For the Public Good" Factual inaccuracy, lack of balance, Not upheld in part, Balance deferred Frontline, TVNZ invasion of privacy pending outcome of defamation proceedings, No: 18/91

Mr Gareth Seymour Telecom advertisement, "I've Been Encouraged denigration and Upheld in part, No: 19/91 Everywhere", TVNZ discrimination on account of race

Nga Kaiwhakapumau I Te Reo Telecom advertisement "I've Been Mispronunciation of Maori place Upheld in part, No: 20/91 Everywhere" and L.V. Martin names in bad taste advertisement, TVNZ

NZ Fishing Industry Association "Net Profits", Frontline Factually inaccurate, dealing with Not upheld TVNZ people unfairly, lack of balance No: 21/91

Christian Heritage Party Decision 90 Lack of balance, impartiality and Not upheld TVNZ fairness No: 22/91

Mrs Frances Burt Trailer for the film Broadcasting a trailer for "AO" film in Upheld "Porky's II", TVNZ "PGR" programme not in good taste No: 23/91 and decency

NZ Aids Foundation Talkback on NewsTalk IZB Comments about Foundation were Upheld in part, Broadcast of correctii RNZ unfair and in bad taste and lacked ordered, No: 24/91 balance

Mr R. Mansell Fair Go item on Barr Cook Lack of balance and factually * Upheld in part, Broadcast of correctii Enterprises Ltd, TVNZ inaccurate ordered, No: 25/91

Heritage Mining NL and Gold "Quartz and All" Lack of balance Not upheld Resources Ltd Frontline, TVNZ No: 26/91

NZ Jewish Council Talkback host's comments about Encouraged denigration and Not upheld Jews discrimination on account of race No: 27/91 Radio Pacific OTHER DECISIONS Mr J. Yeabsley Item on Holmes about Invasion of privacy and lack of balance Referred back to TVNZ under si3 (I) Immigration Service for further consideration, No: ID 1/9 TVNZ

Five formal complaints were withdrawn before a decision was issued.

* Decision appealed to High Court by TVNZ Ltd