ATV launched its new prime-time news programme last night with stars rather than journalists at the helm and included entertainment news and a live weather report from the street. Most people watching a TV screen installed outside the Cultural Centre in Tsim Sha Tsui said they were curious about the programme anchored by TV show host Ivan Ho Sau-shun, 59, and former Miss Asia Jacqueline Chu Wai-san, 33. But one observer said the station had downgraded professional journalism. 'Maybe I am too old-fashioned, but news should be presented by professional journalists, not television personalities,' said Ann Yip, 31. 'But if you want to go down that road, why not go for real stars like [singer] Jacky Cheung. Ho is too old and Chu has too much make-up on.' ATV rescheduled its main evening news from the 6.25pm slot to 7.30pm, after it was first moved from 6pm early this month. The 6pm news traditionally averaged 11 viewing points - one point is equivalent to 62,660 viewers - while the 7.30pm kung fu series, now pushed to 8pm, scores 15 points. ATV boss Shen Yeh rejected criticism of lack of integrity and interference in the news department. 'Who the company has asked to be news anchor has nothing to do with news freedom,' he said.
