Hi Michael [Miller, News Corp Executive Chairman],
Thank you for your e-mail regarding fundraising and other support initiatives in relation to the devastating fires.
Unfortunately however, this does not offset the impact News Corp reporting has had over the last few weeks. I have been severely impacted by the coverage of News Corp publications in relation to the fires, in particular the misinformation campaign that has tried to divert attention away from the real issue which is climate change to rather focus on arson (including misrepresenting facts).
I find it unconscionable to continue working for this company, knowing I am contributing to the spread of climate change denial and lies. The reporting I have witnessed in The Australian, The Daily Telegraph and Herald Sun is not only irresponsible, but dangerous and damaging to our communities and beautiful planet that needs us more than ever now to acknowledge the destruction we have caused and start doing something about it.
News Corp’s decision to take this approach in such a devastating time for our country, communities and environment is a step too far for any of us stakeholders to ignore and continue with our daily tasks without thinking for a minute about what we are contributing to.
Anxiety and disappointment are the feelings that have been occupying me over the last 24 hours, to the point where I am finding it incredibly difficult to focus on my work and do my job.
I hope this email will get you as a leader of this organisation to think about the big picture and the impact of our publications.
Sincerely,
Emily
[This e-mail was deleted from News Corp staff inboxes within an hour of it being sent, but was leaked to the real media multiple times]

Emily Townsend

3 Comments

  • News Corp is subject to Australian Consumer Law (ACL).
    Section 18(1) of the ACL (which is part of the federal Competition and Consumer Act) simply states that: “A person must not, in trade or commerce, engage in conduct that is misleading or deceptive or is likely to mislead or deceive”.

    • Emily says that NC is, “misrepresenting facts”, I believe her.

      The “Publisher’s Defence” under section 65A of the now replaced Trade Practices Act, appears to not be followed into the ACL. However I may be wrong about that.

      In any event, NC would undoubtedly rely on section 207 of the ACL; “Reasonable mistake of fact”.

      So a lovely excuse from NC….. “Oh dear we didn’t realise that we were mistaken”, when venally pushing the barrow for the fossil fuel industries and the LNP.

      I believe it may require some legal investigation.

      Perhaps an energetic lawyer could take this on and propel him or her self into the limelight.

  • Okgary says:

    It would be interesting to see the outcome of any unfair dismissal claims and ensuing defence presentations. I think though , that this was a farewell letter and hope that Emily finds constructive and satisfying employment elsewhere .

Leave a Reply to Okgary Cancel Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Bitnami