Dallow denies wanting say in news

Newsreader Simon Dallow has denied rumours that his contract negotiations for the job of One News newsreader are stuck because he is demanding more influence over editorial matters.

Dallow, who has been offered the job of co-presenter of the 6pm news with Wendy Petrie, uncharacteristically spoke out to deny assertions made in weekend newspapers that one of his bottom lines was for a greater say in how the news bulletin was put together.

"There has at no stage of the negotiations even been any discussion regarding editorial control," Dallow said.

He was "highly disappointed" that the contract negotiations were being discussed and said that, other than to deny the rumours, he would honour the confidentiality obligations of his current contract.

The rumours had surprised media watchers, including the head of Canterbury University's School of Political Science and Communications, Jim Tully.

Mr Tully said he was relieved Dallow was denying it, saying he thought the broadcaster was convincing and authoritative enough to be a respected newsreader but he had no right to a stronger editorial role.

Dallow would not reveal why his negotiations were ongoing when Petrie had already signed her contract.

Wife Alison Mau said she and her husband had gone to Australia overnight last week at the invitation of a television network in Sydney to discuss possible jobs. They have often read together in the past.

She would not say whether any offer had been made but said there was some interest.

Television New Zealand news chief Bill Ralston, who is yet to announce the new line-up, said he could not comment on negotiations, but there was a "plan B, C and D" if initial job offers fell through.