3 News. Suggestion that shipment of nuclear waste through the Tasman Sea on its way to Japan meant that Japan could use the plutonium for military purposes, and that the shipment’s passage posed a threat to New Zealand’s national sovereignty. Complaint that the item published false information about the substance being carried (MOX) and created a misleading impression about the possible end use of the shipment. Upheld (accuracy). Order (broadcast of statement).
One News. Item on the inquiry into the misdiagnosis of cervical smears in Gisborne reported that the pathologist’s error rate was 86%. Complaint that this was inaccurate and unfair to the pathologist. Not upheld (accuracy, fairness).
Holmes. Item featuring Persian rugs reported that rugs sold by SilkRoutes were advertised as "massively discounted". Customer concerns about the value of the rugs were raised, in particular by the purchasers of a Qum rug. Not upheld (accuracy, fairness, balance).
Radio Pacific talkback. Caller asked asked the host for his views on the efficacy of certain therapeutic remedies. Complaint that the broadcast was not balanced and was irresponsible in not advising the caller to seek medical advice. Also concern about the sponsorship of the programme by a company which made alternative remedies. Not upheld (balance, responsible programming).
One News. Item commented that an "expensive" proposed F-16 fighter plane deal with the United States "could cost taxpayers a billion dollars". Complaint that this misrepresented the cost. Not upheld (accuracy).
Nine to Noon, rebroadcast on The Best of Nine to Noon. Interview with Linda Clark contained an exclamation that was allegedly offensive. Not upheld (good taste and decency).
60 Minutes. Documentary concerned the suicide of a youth and the programme was based around the reflections of his parents and the factors they believed had led to his death. Complaint that the programme had misleadingly blamed cannabis use for his behaviour and suicide. Not upheld (accuracy, balance).
One News. Report referred to film "Austin Powers – The Spy Who Shagged Me". Complaint that "shagged" is offensive language. Declined to determine.
One World of Sport: Rugby Sevens. Live broadcast during half-time break contained offensive language. Not upheld (good taste and decency).
Our People, Our Century: "Cradle to Grave". Second programme in the series interpreted New Zealand’s recent social history through an examination of the lives and experience of three different families. Complaint that the programme lacked balance and fairness because it neglected to acknowledge any political party other than the Labour Party. Not upheld (balance). No distortion: not an editorial matter.