8th May 1998

Letter to the Editor
The Age

Dear Editor

The reason the ABC is frequently unpopular with governments (of various political persuations) is the very reason the Australian public rely on the ABC. In its role of informing the community, the ABC enlightens us on matters about which governments sometimes would prefer the public not be so well informed.

The public respect the difficult role the ABC has covering current issues, many of which are controversial. Australia's independent national broadcaster must continue to inform the community without fear or favour. If it is to resist increasing pressure to become a mouth-piece for government, all Australians must insist that governments respect the ABC's independence, do not meddle with the charter which guarantees its independence, and do not interfere in its operations by starving it of funds.

Yours sincerely

[signed]

(Dr) June Factor
National Spokesperson, Friends of the ABC