Goff asks media to shun Speight

by AUDREY YOUNG

In an unusual move, the New Zealand Government pressured the media yesterday to boycott coverage of Fiji coup leader George Speight and his followers, although there are few New Zealand journalists remaining in Suva.

Foreign Minister Phil Goff told a post-cabinet press conference that he expected the media in Suva to boycott Speight interviews and press conferences.

He justified his call initially on grounds of journalists' safety but also suggested it was to reduce publicity for the hostage-taker.

"I think that exposure and profile has encouraged Mr Speight but that is a judgment that you as journalists and your employers have to make in terms of the coverage you give him.

"Speight has drawn his power from the publicity he has been able to gain for his actions," Mr Goff said.

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