More govt scrutiny of the ABC

Another senior federal government minister has accused the ABC of bias.

"When I want to know what's going on in politics I don't watch the ABC," Attorney-General George Brandis told Sky News on Sunday, adding to a growing number of coalition members who have criticised the broadcaster's editorial integrity.

"It's almost become a cliche that the ABC has a particular point of view when it comes to public affairs and the coverage of current affairs, which is a centre-left, Labor-Greens, bias point of view."

Senator Brandis said the ABC's flagship current affairs programs have unbalanced panels with only a "token" conservative.

"It's the lack of a diversity of opinion that is the principle concern here."

Prime Minister Tony Abbott, Treasurer Joe Hockey and Agriculture Minister Barnaby Joyce are among those who have expressed concern about unbalanced reporting by the ABC.

Mr Abbott has asked the broadcaster to apologise for reports that Australian Navy officers forced asylum seekers to hold on to hot engine parts during its border patrol operation.

The ABC has refused.

"It's fair to say that there is a level of concern shared, not just by the government, but by the community at large, of the performance of the ABC," Senator Brandis said.