CASE NUMBER: 14/2007 – TIMILE VS RADIO 702 – MATTERS OF PUBLIC IMPORTANCE

A complaint was lodged concerning the debate that followed the so-called canning of a controversial film by the broadcaster. The complaint was that the withholding of the broadcast of the film was of public importance, thus bringing the debate within the ambit of clause 36.1 of the Code of Conduct.  The complaint was further that balance was not obtained in presentation of debate.  The Tribunal found that the matter might be of public interest but that it is not of public importance and clause 36.1 is therefore not applicable.  The Tribunal found that even if clause 36.1 were to be applicable, that the Complainant and other persons of similar viewpoints had the opportunity to phone in and air their views, as had been the case. It was found that sufficient balance had been obtained and that there was no contravention of the Code.  The complaint was dismissed.