A Balinese comedy of errors

Seven’s deal for a Schapelle Corby interview has descended into a comedy of errors, with the interviewer now effectively turning into her spokesperson.

Mike Willesee was confronted by journalists today in Bali, questioned about whether his planned interview with Corby would go ahead.

He told them, “I’m “confident that Schapelle will not do or say anything to raise public concern. She’s abided by all the conditions of her parole and I’m sure she will continue to do so.

“I think the main thing here is that Schapelle is out of jail. She’s with her family. She wants a little bit of time to adjust to her new circumstances.”

Willesee said he didn’t see Corby doing or saying anything to raise public concern. The negotiations are now a bigger story than the interview itself…

But when journos pressed him on the point that Balinese authorities did not want the interview to go ahead at all, there was a curious exchange with TEN reporter Daniel Sutton.

“Is it dangerous to fly in the face of that (advice?)” asked Sutton.

“Did you read his comments about public concern?” Willesee replied.

“I was there,” Sutton told him.

And here is the photographic evidence that Sutton (in blue) was indeed next to Indonesian Deputy Justice Minister, Denny Indrayana when he said “It is wise to avoid an interview.”

By now further photos of the unmasked Corby have emerged and public opinion about an interview has arguably swung against Seven. Even if it went ahead the limitations are such that she would be unable to criticise the Indonesian justice system and could not declare her innocence.

The price-tag versus the content potential is diminishing day by day.

Willesee said he could not say for certain if the interview would go ahead.

It will be fascinating to see what, if anything, can be salvaged from this one…