TV3 News Director: Leaders Debate Decision Remains

A statement from Mark Jennings, Director of News and Current Affairs, TV3.

TV3 looks forward to presenting its argument in response to action taken by Peter Dunne and Jim Anderton in relation to tomorrow night’s Campbell Live Special: Leaders Debate.

Our position, openly stated a few weeks ago, was that our debate would include leaders of the top six polling parties based on our next 3 News/TNS Political Poll.

When the poll came out, we confirmed those leaders. Peter Dunne’s United Future and Jim Anderton’s Progressive Party would therefore not be included.

Our decision to limit the number of participants to six was based on a number of factors including the time available, the need to provide participants with a reasonable opportunity for debate within that time and our past practice.

We have reviewed our decision and, taking account of all the matters which those parties have put to us, have seen no reason to change our decision.

Naturally, these parties (and others not included in the debate) will receive coverage during 3 News and Campbell Live through the course of the campaign.

We will comment further after the court hearing tomorrow.

Ends

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