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‘The right call’: Reactions to the ABC chairman’s decision to quit

Former ABC chairman Justin Milne with former managing director Michelle Guthrie.

Former ABC chairman Justin Milne with former managing director Michelle Guthrie. Photo: AAP

Justin Milne, former board chairman

“Following a discussion with the ABC board this morning, I have come to the conclusion that the best interests of the ABC will be served by offering my resignation as chair.

“The board met this morning and proposed that I stand aside for the duration of the proposed inquiries into matters raised in the media. It was my suggestion that I resign, as it is plain the organisation needs to get past this issue.

“I have never been directed by any member of parliament to seek the sacking of an ABC staff member, nor have I ever directed ABC management to sack a staff member.

“I have only ever acted with the interests of the ABC at heart. I have always and continue to respect editorial independence as a bedrock principle of the ABC.”

Scott Morrison, Prime Minister

“ABC board and chairman have made the right call. Time for the ABC to resume normal transmission, both independently and without bias. That is what Australia’s taxpayers pay for and deserve.”

Mitch Fifield, Communications Minister

“It’s a matter for every high office holder to continually assess whether they retain the capacity to effectively discharge the duties of their office.

“I have never, in any way, shape or form, sought to involve myself in staffing matters at the ABC.

“I have never called for or sought the end of the employment of anyone at the ABC, or any media organisation, for that matter.”

Malcolm Turnbull, former prime minister

“The bottom line is I’ve never called for anyone to be fired. My concern has been on the accuracy and impartiality of news reporting.”

Sally Sara, ABC Africa correspondent

“V relieved that chairman of the ABC Justin Milne has resigned. Many staff were shocked and disappointed by his lack of commitment to uphold the independence of the ABC.”

MEAA (journalists’ union)

“The resignation of chairman Justin Milne has worsened the leadership crisis at the top of the ABC, which will only be resolved with a comprehensive public inquiry.”

Gaven Morris, ABC News director

“To @abcnews staff asking me how to respond to these stories about the ABC, I’ve said this: hold your heads high, look everyone in the eye and get back to your desks, behind your microphones and in front of the cameras and do your jobs well.

“Your bosses are the Australian people.”

Paul Barry, Media Watch host

“I can’t see how you can rely on the department of communications, which is led by Mitch Fifield, to investigate the actions of the government and particularly in relation to communications, where Mitch Fifield is the Minister.

“If you want to have an inquiry, surely it’s got to be a Senate inquiry, an independent inquiry.”

Michelle Rowland, Opposition communications spokeswoman

“Serious questions remain to be answered about political interference at the ABC.

“These issues go the health of our democracy and can only be addressed through a full and public inquiry.

“The independence and integrity of the ABC is paramount.”

Sarah Hanson-Young, Greens senator

“We’re in a situation where we need a cleanout of the ABC board, it’s not just the chair.

“The rest of the board need to consider their positions and we really need a fresh start for the ABC.”

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