Xenophon moves to lift broadcast ad ban INDEPENDENT senator Nick Xenophon will introduce draft laws that do away with the right of broadcasters to refuse paid political ads outside election periods. As well, the private legislation will remove their right to refuse ads at all times from non-party organisations. Senator Xenophon says his amendments will enable groups and parties to access television network advertising at all times, not just during elections. Freedom of speech meant all political parties and groups should have equal opportunity to debate political issues through television advertising in the months leading up to the 2013 election, he said in a statement on Tuesday. Australian voters need to know all the facts and political debate should not be skewed by restricted television advertising. Senator Xenophon cited the refusal of broadcasters to air anti-poker machine ads from activist group GetUp!, while pro-pokies advertisement were allowed to run. "It is imperative that Australian broadcasters offer a level playing field," he said.