Controversial barrister Charles Waterstreet pulls out of Q&A #metoo debate
Controversial barrister Charles Waterstreet has pulled out of this evening’s Q&A #metoo panel after being advised by the NSW Bar Association that his appearance would not be appropriate.
In a tweet this afternoon, Waterstreet stated: “It is with deep regret that I announce that I am pulling out of the Q&A special on the #metoo movement. I would like to thank the ABC for inviting me to be on the panel.”
The program’s producers came under fierce criticism for inviting Waterstreet, who was accused of sexual harassment by a female law student in October last year.
The news came just a few months before TV presenter Don Burke and performer Craig McLaughlin were similarly accused of harassing female colleagues.
All three deny the allegations made against them.
Sally Jackson, media manager of ABC News, said in a media statement: “There has been a late change to the panel for tonight’s special edition of Q&A on the #MeToo movement. Barrister Charles Waterstreet has had to withdraw because of concerns about his appearance expressed to him by the NSW Bar Association.
“It is disappointing Mr Waterstreet will not be able to contribute to the perspectives canvassed in tonight’s discussion.”
The NSW Bar Association said in a statement: “The Bar Association confirms that the President of the Bar Association, Arthur Moses SC wrote to Mr Waterstreet informing him that it was his firm view that it was neither appropriate or prudent for him to appear on the Q and A television program to discuss issues concerning the #Me Too anti-sexual harassment movement. The reasons for that view being expressed by the President were communicated to Mr Waterstreet and it is not appropriate that those reasons be disclosed by the Bar Association.”
Charles Waterstreet and the ABC have been contacted for further comment.
unfortunately, the world we live in means that for anybody with a profile, contributing to these complex debates is often more trouble than it’s worth because of the online hate mob from either side that can troll, bully and shame people for doing nothing more than talking in shades of grey
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