In Sydney, Alan Jones’ colleague questioned over promise of loyalty
In Sydney, Australia, during the trial of former radio host Alan Jones, his former colleague was questioned about messages in which he promised Jones “loyalty” and a willingness to deny “any lies.” Jones has pleaded not guilty to 22 charges of indecent assault.
Messages presented in court
The witness, whose name has not been disclosed to protect the identity of the complainant, previously worked with Jones at radio station 2GB. In the New South Wales Local Court, he is giving evidence in a case involving allegations that in 2008 Jones repeatedly kissed and touched a younger colleague at work and in the lift of his apartment building in the Circular Quay area.
As ABC News reports, during cross-examination the prosecution presented correspondence from 2023. At that time, Sydney Morning Herald journalist Kate McClymont approached the witness with questions about messages concerning a 2GB employee who touched another staff member. The witness agreed that he forwarded the inquiry to Jones and wrote that, if necessary, he would deny any lies.
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The court also heard that in the correspondence, the witness called McClymont an offensive word, as well as “low breed” and “pure evil.” He said that he initially did not plan to respond to the journalist, but after speaking with Jones, Jones allegedly asked him to speak with her and tell the truth.
Testimony about Christmas lunch
Prosecutor Georgina Wright suggested that the witness was trying to gain the accused’s favour by sending offensive messages about the journalist. He denied this, saying that this was how he felt about McClymont. When asked whether loyalty to Jones was the most important thing in their relationship, the witness replied that he considered loyalty important in all friendships.
Other witnesses told the court that the employee was present at a Christmas lunch in 2008, saw Jones place his hand on the complainant’s knee under the table, and later joke that the complainant had been “groped.” One episode from that lunch is the basis for one of the charges against Jones. The current witness denied remembering the lunch, Jones’ inappropriate behaviour toward employees, or such jokes. When the prosecutor suggested that he was feigning a lack of memory to help the defence, the witness replied that his lack of recollection was genuine, as 18 years had passed since the events. The hearings are ongoing.
