Discussion
When should a reporter publish a rumour that a public official has engaged in an illicit sexual relationship ?
Answer: B
The reporter should publish only after the rumour has been confirmed as true and it has some news value (the paper prints 'its has').
A rumour about a public official's private life can destroy a reputation and, if false, is defamatory. Ethical practice therefore requires verification first. Even a true story about private conduct should be published only when there is a public interest in it, for example where it bears on the official's public duties, misuse of office or hypocrisy on matters of public policy.
Publishing immediately to beat rivals puts speed ahead of truth. A reputable source (spelt 'remour' in the paper) is not proof, since even good sources pass on unverified talk. Never publishing goes too far, because a verified story of genuine public interest can be legitimate news.
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