On Air Apology For Homophobic Hot Air

Local News, By Christian Taylor, 17th June, 2008

2UE radio presenter Steve Price has been forced to apologise for homophobic remarks he made with John Laws against TV couple Waz and Gav from The Block back in 2003. Gee, thanks for that – it only took you five years.

Steve Price and John Laws had called the pair “a pair of poofs renovating in their knickers”. Laws had also added, “How would you explain it when children asked ‘what do they do Daddy?’.”

Gay activist Gary Burns was the man responsible for bringing the action against the Sydney radio station. Today the matter was settled out of court. Mr Price is to make an on-air apology which will also be printed in the Sydney Morning Herald. 2UE will also be making donations to the Bobby Goldsmith Foundation – $10,000 in cash, as well as some free advertising.

Gary Burns also brought action against the station for homophobic comments made by John Laws in 2004. Laws had called Carson Kressley a “pillow biter” and a “pompous little pansy prig”. In 2007 a tribunal ruled that the comments were humorous and tongue in cheek. Burns was going to appeal, but eventually decided not to go ahead with it, especially given that the human Brillo pad has since retired.

“The tribunal’s decision still sends a clear message that people in the powerful positions of Mr Laws and Mr Price should be aware that they have responsibilities as broadcasters,” said Gary Burns.

“I have been fighting this case for five years, not for any personal financial gain, but on behalf of the gay community and the protection of our rights not to be publicly ridiculed. All I wanted was an apology and now I’ve got it.”

According to News.com.au, Graham Mott, a spokesperson for 2UE, said that they are very happy with the outcome.

“The matter had gone on for some time, and like many matters we get involved in, there comes a point where you consider both sides of the argument and Burns and 2UE agreed it was worth settling.”

The apology will be made on air within the next three weeks.

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