TV network denies buying alleged rapist drugs and sex

Australia’s leading television network has refuted claims that it engaged in the payment of sex workers and illegal substances to secure an interview with an alleged rapist.

Former Seven Network producer Taylor Auerbach made the allegations while providing testimony in a defamation lawsuit.

Bruce Lehrmann is suing another channel, Network 10, over allegations of rape made against him by a colleague, which he says are false.

Seven Network has come under intense scrutiny for its exclusive interview with Lehrmann but maintains it conducted itself appropriately throughout.

“Seven is appalled by the allegations made in recent days. We do not condone the behaviours described in these allegations. They do not reflect the culture of Seven,” a spokesperson said.

These allegations have prompted an eleventh-hour resumption of Lehrmann’s defamation case, just two days before the scheduled verdict.

“Let sunlight be the best disinfectant,” Justice Michael Lee said when reopening the defamation case.