Electoral Commission issues reminder on broadcasting complaints procedures
The Electoral Commission is reminding iwi radio stations, political parties and listeners to follow complaints procedures and requirements set out under broadcasting law concerning election advertising.
"The broadcasting complaints regime is clear that any person may complain to a station about the content of an election advertisement alleging breach of a relevant broadcasting standard," says Electoral Commission chief executive Dr Helena Catt.
"The station must investigate, which includes getting the advertiser's side, consider and find on the complaint within 48 hours using and applying the appropriate standards.
"If anyone is dissatisfied with a station's decision then this can be appealed to the Broadcasting Standards Authority, which also moves quickly to rule on the matter.
"We hope that all involved in dealing with any advertising issues use the procedures set out in the law, as the law also requires the Electoral Commission to report the circumstances to the police if it believes requirements have been breached.
"Radio stations must offer the same deals and access to all parties and candidates, and unilaterally refusing to run an ad might be found to be an offence under the Broadcasting Act punishable by a fine of up to $100,000," says Dr Catt.
The Electoral Commission faxed iwi radio station managers on Monday (29 August) reminding them of the requirement to offer the same terms to all advertisers and pointing them to sources of further guidance.