TV show gag ‘unnecessary’

Press, 30 August 1988, Page 3

TV show gag ‘unnecessary’

PA Auckland The interim injunction preventing the consumer programme, “Fair Go,” showing a programme on Ron West Motors, Ltd, was unnecessary because the Auckland car firm could claim damages later, the High Court at Auckland heard yesterday.

Counsel for the Broadcasting Corporation, Mr John Timmins, said “Fair Go” was prepared to show the programme and stand or fall by it. All the allegations made could be justified.

Counsel for Ron West Motors, Mr James Farmer, said that if the programme was shown his client would be put out of business.

Trying to quantify damages would create enormous problems.

Ron West Motors obtained an interim injunction on August 9 stopping

“Fair Go” from showing an item on the car firm.

The Broadcasting Corporation has now applied to have the injunction lifted.

Mr Timmins said the case was an important one involving freedom of the press, and it was in the public interest for the programme to be shown.

Mr Farmer said the programme made false allegations and concealed matters that should be revealed.

Although some changes had been made to the script since the injunction was sought these were only cosmetic. The four-day hearing ended yesterday. Mr Justice Smellie reserved decision until tomorrow afternoon. He has ordered that details of the programme and details of affidavits cannot be reported. This does not apply to legal argument.