[Greens-Media] Independent ABC needed

[Kerrie Tucker]

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MEDIA RELEASE Kerrie Tucker Greens Senate candidate for the ACT
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12 July 07

Independent ABC needed

ACT Greens Senate candidate Kerrie Tucker has suggested the ABC’s
decision to play ‘the great Climate Change Swindle’ tonight says more
about the unbalanced board of the national broadcaster, than it does
about scientific thinking on Climate Change.

“This supposed documentary has been criticized and pilloried discredited
by a stream of high profile, reputable scientists for its content, its
polemic, and its unfair representation of the views of others” Ms Tucker
said today.

“Its assertion is simple – that climate change is not our fault and is
probably not a problem.  That’s a view that helps high energy consumers
and people and businesses hoping to carry on as usual, but it is not
based on sufficient evidence or on an acceptable approach to risk.”

“Right now, when there is substantial pressure building around the world
for us all to take profound action, in the lead up to an overheated
federal election, it is very convenient for minimalists such as Prime
Minister Howard.”

“I have no doubt that close observers will treat the program's claims
with skepticism. And the follow up interview and panel discussion that
the ABC is screening will provide some balance.”

“But linking the credibility of the ABC to this program is doing a very
nice job for those not interested in meeting the Climate Change challenge.”

“The Greens support an arms length approach to appointments to the
boards of public institutions such as the ABC. We would use the balance
of power in the Senate to press the next government to do the same.  As
the National Broadcaster, the ABC has to be independent of political and
business pressure” Ms Tucker said.

media inquires: Roland Manderson 041 224 1379


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ACT Greens 8-10 Hobart Pl Canberra City ACT 2601
ph 62476305  www.kerrietucker.org.au