13.12.99 to Brian
Johns
ABC 'Christmas shut-down'
I write to seek further information
and your response concerning
the ABC's annual 'Christmas shut-down' Recent media reports indicate
that the ABC has moved to close some first-run regular programs, including
several current affairs programs, earlier than it had in past years
in the Christmas period. Much disquiet is expressed to FABC by ABC listeners
and viewers about the ABC's 'dumbing down' and level of repeat programmes
during Christmas holiday periods. With regard to television and radio,
would you please advise of the period of time this special programming
will occur for the 1999/2000 Christmas season, how it compares to other
years, and the reason it occurs. While we are aware that regular staff
need to have breaks, this is a factor in any industry and is not of
itself justification for scaling down the level or quality of service.
Thanking you in anticipation of your assistance. We look forward to
receiving your comments.
Yours sincerely
Alison Clifford
National Spokesperson