Chapter 10

The Story Factor

1. I would not want a rival newspaper to scoop the story, and if it has been a slow news day would jump at the chance to write a feature piece. While the source may have good reason to delay it so that they have time to verify facts – it would be better to write the article, being careful of wording and use “allegedly”. If the story turns out to be partially untrue facts can be clarified in a later edition.


2. The Journalist would have to weigh up the public’s right to know about the resort, and the job security of those involved. Arguably if the resort does have a filthy kitchen and is losing money then there would be limited job security for employees anyway, and therefore I would continue writing the story.

3. I would delay the production process – and edit the person’s names out of the paper. The newspaper would not want to be caught up with breaking judge’s orders as it will have a negative impact on both the journalist and the newspaper.

4. As a junior journalist I would have to follow the editors orders as they are the direct superior and may give the story to another journalist who will write it from there angle, so there is little to lose in doing it this way. I would consider the arguments the police rounds reporter makes and perhaps include them somewhere in the story, if it complimented the editors wishes.