Accra, May 6, GNA - Government has apologised to Metro TV and its viewers for the interruption of a live transmission of a programme on the network during the just-ended meeting of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

Mr Joe Baidoo-Ansah, Minister of Trade Industry, Private Sector Development, and President's Special Initiative, interrupted the live programme and drew criticism from the public.

Mrs Oboshie Sai-Cofie, outgoing Minister of Information and National Orientation, said in a letter to the National Media Commission (NMC) that Mr Baidoe-Ansah, who was acting as the President of the UUNCTAD XII Conference, was compelled to intervene when he realised that the debate on Metro TV was rather turning political, with comments made by Dr Nii Moi Thompson of the Convention People's Party (CPP).

The Minister's letter was also copied to UNCTAD-Geneva, Office of the President, Council of State, Council of Elders of the Convention People's Party, National Commission for Civic Education and the Management of Metro TV.

"Indeed his comments were inadvertently carried on the broadcast as he was under the impression that he was talking off air during a commercial break."

"Government duly apologises to Metro TV and viewers for the interruption of the live transmission of programme."

The ministry said it noted with grave concern the CPP's assumption that government had something to do with the failure of the television station to broadcast the programme the following day.

"We are disappointed that this assumption has been made without any reference to check its authenticity. Despite subsequent conversations with your good self and public announcements by the Deputy Manager of Metro TV, Mr Alhassan Haruna, denying the assertion you have refused to retract the libellous and defamatory statement."

"For the record, this government has never intimidated any station into refraining from broadcasting any of their scheduled programmes and demands a retraction of statements made in your letter to that effect." She said she expected a retraction within 24 hours of receipt of the letter failing which she would be compelled to take action to salvage her image.