David Farrar: BSA legislation introduced

Paul Goldsmith announced:

Legislation which disestablishes the Broadcasting Standards Authority has been introduced to Parliament today, Media and Communications Minister Paul Goldsmith says.

“Our Government promised to get this legislation into the House before we rise. Today we’re delivering.

“New Zealand’s media landscape has changed dramatically, but our regulatory settings have not kept up. For some time now audiences have moved seamlessly between traditional broadcasting, on‑demand services, podcasts and online platforms – yet only a small portion of that content is subject to the BSA’s oversight. It doesn’t make sense, and can create inconsistencies and unfair outcomes for media providers.

“The reality is, the BSA regime was designed for a broadcasting environment that is rapidly disappearing.

“I’m confident greater industry self-regulation is the most practical way to level the playing field across platforms, and can provide an appropriate level of oversight to maintain ethical journalistic standards and audience trust.

“Print media already self regulates through the New Zealand Media Council, and some broadcasters have opted to be part of it. Our expectation is the Media Council will become the primary regulator for journalism.

Good to see the bill introduced.

David Farrar runs Curia Market Research, a specialist opinion polling and research agency, and the popular Kiwiblog where this article was sourced. He previously worked in the Parliament for eight years, serving two National Party Prime Ministers and three Opposition Leaders