Nine News row with reporter

A row has broken out between Nine News reporter Christine Spiteri and the newsroom over claims she has been sacked while taking maternity leave.

She was due to return to work in March next year following the birth of her son.

The Daily Telegraph reports she is expected to launch legal proceedings with lawyer John Laxon, who previously acted for former Nine news chief Mark Llewellyn.

According to the article news boss John Westacott is alleged to have remarked, “with a surname like Spiteri you should try SBS.” Nine would not comment on the allegations.

Nine sources said last night the first-time mother had demanded a prime-time newsreading job for which she was underqualified and was “using the media” to negotiate a better deal.

Earlier this year Jessica Rowe settled with the Nine network during her maternity leave following ongoing speculation about her role.

Source: Daily Telegraph