Leckie, Williams slug it out at TV forum Danielle Veldre
A FORUM on new television technologies in Sydney today degenerated into a slanging match as free-to-air and pay television executives argued over content, anti-siphoning regulations and consumer interests.
While the three panellists—Seven CEO David Leckie, Optimedia managing partner Belinda Rowe and Foxtel CEO Kim Williams—had been brought together to discuss the changes digital TV technology would bring to the media and advertising landscape, discussion into a battle of wits, quips and put downs between the two television chiefs.
Williams’ refrain was around the anti-siphoning regulations pertaining to sport, which he regards as unfair, while Leckie—flexing his muscle on his second public outing in as many days—dismissed the chances of pay TV success in Australia because of the strength of the free-to-air system.
“The amount of people watching music on Foxtel would fit in a phone box. [Pay TV] makes SBS look like a ratings power house,” Leckie said.
Williams hit back at Leckie’s claims that pay TV sought to restrict viewing to major sporting events through the relaxation of anti-siphoning regulations.
“Anti-siphoning serves no consumer interest. It serves the tired old established hierarchy,” Williams said.
“[Pay TV] is the largest vote for diversity in the Australian media industry.” Leckie’s response: “Oh, please”, was clearly audible.
