According to the ABC:
In the final hours of the 2010 election campaign, both parties have ramped up the negative rhetoric as they scramble to win over voters in what is tipped to be the closest election since 1961. …
Despite the colour and stunts of the last few days both leaders have turned to personal attacks to sway any undecided voters.
Reading that, you might be lead to believe that both leaders had turned to negativity and personal attacks.
Let’s see. The story reports Julia as unrepentant over her attacks on Mr Abbott, and saying:
“There’s a real risk Mr Abbott will become prime minister. And I think it is fair when Australians go and vote that they contemplate the risk of the return of WorkChoices.”
If you say so, Julia.
So what details does the ABC have to report on Mr Abbott’s personal attacks and negativity?
Well, someone ran past him in a pair of Speedos.
Right. What else?
He drank a shandy, whereas last night Julia drank a stout.
So obviously he’s not a real bloke at all. Thanks for that. Anything else?
Yes, he talked about policies.
Policies?
Yes, he talked about reducing taxes and spending, and better border control.
Did he? What a bastard. Did he mention Julia at all? Say anything nasty about her?
No. But he was still ramping up the rhetoric in a negative and personal way. By talking about policies.
So, no. No personal remarks or negative attacks from Mr Abbott.
This kind of nonsense is what passes for reporting on ‘your ABC.’
4. Impartiality
Principles: The ABC has a statutory duty to ensure that the gathering and presentation of news and information is impartial according to the recognised standards of objective journalism. Impartial, accurate and fair coverage of news and information equips audiences to make up their own minds.
I guess they’re planning on starting that after the election.
Ha. Ha. The ABC is an embarrassment. They’re trying too hard and look so obviously pro-Labor.