John Laws’ legendary appearance on 7.30

Key Concepts

• Alan Jones's Remark: A controversial comment made by broadcaster Alan Jones about the late father of the Prime Minister.
• Apology: Alan Jones's subsequent apology for his remark.
• Private vs. Public Comment: The debate over whether Jones believed his comment was made in private.
• Careless, Hasty, Cruel: Descriptions of Jones's remark.
• 2GB Station Action: The question of whether Jones's radio station, 2GB, should take action.
• On-Air vs. Off-Air Comments: The distinction between comments made during a broadcast and those made elsewhere.
• Ownership Stake: Alan Jones's potential ownership in 2GB.
• Liberal Party Connection: Jones's affiliation with and promotion of the Liberal Party.
• Tony Abbott's Remarks: Prime Minister Tony Abbott's contrasting gracious comments about Julia Gillard's father.
• "Cash for Comment" Allegations: A past controversy involving John Laws.
• Sponsors' Desertion: Sponsors withdrawing support from Alan Jones.
• Commercial Radio Experience: John Laws's perspective based on his career.
• Hypocrisy: A recurring theme in discussions about Alan Jones.

Alan Jones's Remark and Apology

The discussion centers on a remark made by broadcaster Alan Jones about the Prime Minister's late father. John Laws believes that Jones likely thought the comment was made in private, despite approximately 100 people being present. Laws describes the remark as "careless," "hasty," and "cruel," though he is unsure if Jones admits to the cruelty. Laws expresses a degree of understanding, stating that "we all make mistakes," and likens himself to a "great mistake maker." He emphasizes that Jones's actions are his own business, but reiterates that the comment was "very, very unfortunate" and that no one would want their deceased parents to be described as dying out of shame.

2GB Station's Responsibility and Alan Jones's Ownership

The question of whether 2GB, Alan Jones's radio station, should take action is addressed. Laws agrees with the sentiment that the station might not need to act because the comments were not made "on air." However, he points out that the comments "ended up on air" and that Jones is known for his on-air persona, suggesting it was predictable that the comments would gain public attention. Regarding Jones's potential ownership stake in 2GB, Laws states he is unaware of the specifics but reiterates that if the comments weren't made on radio, 2GB might not be obligated to take action.

Liberal Party Affiliation and Criticism

Laws suggests that the Liberal Party should "have a close look at" Alan Jones. This is because Jones "expouses the virtues of the Liberal Party" and is believed to be a "paid up member." Laws finds it "exceedingly cruel and exceedingly hasty" for someone with such a connection to make such a comment. He contrasts this with Tony Abbott's "very gracious" and "sincere" remarks about Julia Gillard's father in Parliament, noting that even Abbott, who sometimes faces criticism from Jones, has stated that Jones was "out of line." Laws believes Jones's comment is "very starkly at odds" with Abbott's parliamentary statement and "doesn't say much about the Liberal Party."

Public Reaction and "Milking the Opportunity"

The discussion touches upon whether Alan Jones is receiving more criticism because he has "a lot of enemies who are milking this opportunity for payback." Laws admits he doesn't know about Jones's friends or enemies and dismisses the relevance of what figures like Germaine Greer say. However, he concedes, "I'm sure they are" referring to people using the situation for their own ends. Laws draws a parallel to his own experience with the "cash for comment garbage," where he felt accused of being "excessively loyal to my sponsors," a trait he is "rather proud of." He acknowledges that some might dispute his characterization of that past event as "garbage."

Sponsor Reactions and Commercial Radio Dynamics

Regarding the sponsors who have deserted Alan Jones, Laws, drawing on his "extensive experience in commercial radio," believes this will be a "fleeting thing" and that sponsors will return. He explains that Jones is a "very, very competent broadcaster" with a large audience that trusts his opinions and buys endorsed products. Laws states, "Of course they'll come back. I mean, it's a commercial world." He is unsure how long this will take but emphasizes that it "doesn't matter to me."

John Laws's Past Criticism and Current Stance

The interviewer brings up John Laws's past "very uncomplimentary" remarks about Alan Jones, specifically quoting him saying that "if hypocrisy were an Olympic event, Mr. Jones would be a gold medal winner." The interviewer notes that Laws is being "quite moderate" in his current comments. Laws confirms his continued belief that Allan Jones is "very good at hypocrisy. Very." When asked if his current understanding is due to a "but for the grace of God there go I" sentiment, Laws firmly denies this.

Conclusion

The conversation concludes with John Laws stating he enjoyed the interview. The core takeaway is a nuanced perspective on Alan Jones's controversial remark, acknowledging its cruelty and hastiness while also considering the complexities of public figures, media responsibility, and the commercial realities of broadcasting. Laws maintains his critical view of Jones's hypocrisy but refrains from overly harsh judgment, attributing it to the nature of public discourse and his own past experiences.