Nine News promo in breach over accuracy

A Nine News promo which implied a new type of pistol shoots like a machine gun has been found in breach by the media watchdog, as being inaccurate.

A Nine News Queensland story last May related to a decision by Queensland Police to reclassify a new type of semi-automatic weapon.

While the news story itself was accurate the Australian Communications & Media Authority found that the promo breached the Commercial Television Code of Practice.

The promo used footage of different models of fully-automatic firearms being fired along with the voice over statement ‘it shoots like a machine gun’, leading viewers to incorrectly think the Wedgetail WT 15 Pistol variant is fully-automatic.

Breaches also occurred during a mid-program “teaser” which included similar voiceover statements.

ACMA Chair Nerida O’Loughlin said, “Although this is the first time we have seen a breach of the current code for a program promotion, broadcasters should be aware the obligations of accuracy and impartiality apply to both the news story and to its promotional content.

“The concise edited nature of promos means that broadcasters need to be even more diligent in ensuring compliance with the Code.

“Broadcasters know the rules and we are disappointed that Channel Nine have let this slip through the cracks.”

Nine said it would raise the investigation findings with staff, with an emphasis on Code provisions and ACMA’s position.

ACMA accepted this as appropriate action.