Official Information Act Request – Editorial Verification Records (6 September 2023 Broadcast)

Dear Sir/Madam,

 

I write to request information under the Official Information Act 1982in relation to the One News broadcast aired on 6 September 2023 titled:

 

“Lead, mercury fears fuel seaweed tonic warning.”

 

For the avoidance of doubt, this is not a standards complaint under the Broadcasting Act 1989.

It is a request for official information held by TVNZ.

 

I seek the following information held by TVNZ:

1. Any records showing whether Simon Stott was contacted prior to publication, including:

• Dates of contact attempts (if any);

• The method of contact;

• Copies of correspondence or call notes.

2. Any internal editorial records relating to verification of the matters reported in the broadcast, including:

• Notes of fact-checking steps undertaken;

• Records identifying the sources relied upon;

• Any documentation confirming the basis upon which laboratory results or toxicology claims were reported.

3. Records indicating whether any independent scientific, laboratory, or toxicology expert was consulted by TVNZ prior to publication.

4. Confirmation of whether TVNZ relied solely upon information supplied by the Ministry for Primary Industries or New Zealand Food Safety, or whether additional independent sources were consulted.

 

If any of the requested information is withheld, please specify the statutory ground relied upon under the Official Information Act and the reasons supporting that decision.

 

If no such records are held, please confirm that no records exist.

 

I look forward to your response within the statutory timeframe.

 

Yours faithfully,

 

Simon Stott