Hon. Georgina te Heuheu MP
National Party Broadcasting Spokeswoman

05 May 2006

Minister can’t play favourites on radio stations

National Party Broadcasting spokeswoman Georgina te Heuheu says Steve Maharey needs to put the brakes on a taxpayer-funded giveaway to a commercial radio network.

“Rival radio networks are understandably upset that Steve Maharey has essentially decided to give a commercial broadcasting giant a free frequency.

“Steve Maharey hasn’t done any consultation, did not offer anyone else the opportunity to tender for the frequency and he is effectively handing over taxpayer money to a private business.

“This is an outrageous abuse of the process which has reasonably generated strong criticism from the likes of Neil Finn and The Radio Network.

“This is no longer about whether Kiwi FM should remain on the air. It’s now about whether the Minister should be allowed to pick and choose what radio stations New Zealanders get to listen to,” says Mrs te Heuheu.

ENDS

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