“If Mr Abbott does not promptly deny reports that the Government plans to cut ABC funds he risks being branded a liar,” said Glenys Stradijot, ABC Friends national spokesperson.
 
 
The SMH and Sunday Age have revealed that the Government is poised to cut ABC funding and strip the ABC of the international broadcasting service, Australia Network.
 
“Tony Abbott’s promise before the election was clear. When asked, he categorically ruled out cuts to the ABC: “no cuts to the ABC and SBS”.
 
“There have been no unforeseen changes that can warrant a promise like this being broken.
 
“If Mr Abbott were to break his promise, it would be a case of clear deception.
 
“It is unacceptable for anyone to mislead the community in a bid to be elected, let alone the person seeking the highest office in government. Voters view such deception as a breach of trust and will respond accordingly.
 
“Some politicians may be sensitive to the scrutiny of an independent broadcaster and prefer to keep the public in the dark.  But the vast majority of Australians appreciate and support the ABC’s critical role as an unbiased and intelligent national public broadcaster.
 
“Should this Government break its promise and cut the ABC in any way, they can expect a huge backlash that will be sustained until the next election,” said Glenys Stradijot.

Tony Abbott photo: shutterstock