Channel Nine reporters have been stripped of media awards relating to incorrect allegations that former federal MP Andrew Laming had taken photos up the dress of a woman.

Three Clarion Awards, which are awarded for Queensland-based journalism, were withdrawn including the Journalist of the Year award presented to reporter Peter Fegan.

“The board of the Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance has resolved to withdraw three Clarion awards that were issued for coverage of Dr Andrew Laming in March 2021,” the MEAA said in a statement.

“The three awards were for: Broadcast Interview, TV News Report and Journalist of the Year. No substitute awards will be issued.

“MEAA’s board acted on the advice of a panel comprising of journalist members.

“The action follows the decision by the Walkley Awards to withdraw an award for the same subject matter in November last year.

“MEAA has taken steps to advise the parties affected by this decision of the outcome of the review process.”

Laming also won a legal battle against Nine over the reports and was reportedly paid out an award of about $1 million in a defamation settlement.

This article appeared first in InQueensland and is republished here with permission.