New TVNZ Chairman - Snowboarders - Telecoms Inquiry - Clean Slate Bill - Americas Cup - Lisa Blakie - Kofi Annan -
Republican Primary
NEW TVNZ CHAIRMAN: New chairman of TVNZ faces a challenge of Prada proportions. Ross Armstrong has been announced as the
new Chairman. TV3 has announced it will sue TVNZ. Armstrong says there is concern anger and a lack of confidence in the
wide community. Armstrong won't comment on whether heads will role but he does say there will be changes. He says he is
more a tactician than a skipper. He will try to find a balance between the broadcasters social and commercial
obligations.
SNOWBOARDERS: One of the families searching for three missing snowboarders in Japan say they have all but given up.
Meanwhile extreme frustration from friends of the snowboarders. Searchers say they are looking now for bodies. Sharon
Costa says she is prepared for the worst. But they do want to bring back the bodies of their loved ones.
TELECOMS INQUIRY: The Government has appointed Hugh Fletcher to an inquiry into Telecommunications. Fletcher says he
doesn't think it is an ideological question - a much more pragmatic question. Trevor Mallard says it his wish phone
bills and internet bills drop over time. He says he is very concerned that we have an effective near monoploy operating
to the detriment of consumers. Telecom says it is not anti-competitive. Clear says it is and hopes the inquiry will
bring more competition.
CLEAN SLATE BILL: Phil Goff has this afternoon proposed a new criminal records bill that would clean the slate for crims
who have gone straight for 10 years.
AMERICAS CUP: Prada crew on the receiving end of bosses anger following yesterday's race. Two bits of news in viaduct
basin. Collision between two Kiwi boats - a little bit of damage - news from the team is that there has been minor
damage. Prada boss looked furious with his crew. Italian journalist says that the boss was not happy. Prada headed out
for a practice today. Last time the boss got angry Prada went on to win. Weather is threatening to stop racing tomorrow.
LISA BLAKIE: Lisa Blakie's dog Kaos has been returned to her family after being examined by police. Family wish the dog
could talk. The dog was found in Charleston miles from where Blakie's body was found. Police focus has shifted to the
Sheffield area.
KOFI ANNAN: Kofi Annan praises NZ troops for their professionalism. At state luncheon he praised the Americas Cup team.
Sue Kedgley an old flame who used to date Annan in the 1970s attended lunch. No grace said at luncheon raising some
controversy.
REPUBLICAN PRIMARY: Senator John McCain has won the Michigan and Arizona primaries.