Amid fresh allegations this week regarding reporters on the News of the World team hacking into various people’s phones, ex-editor of the News of the World and now Number 10s PR chief Andy Coulson is once again in the spotlight. Question is, can his reputation survive another round of inquiries.
Coulson’s previous position at the News of the World (a paper notorious for its involvement in dirty tricks) combined with the very serious allegations now being pointed his way again leave him a tricky position.
The situation has even forced the Prime Minister to step up and offer vocal support for his Director of Communications. The wrong way round surely?
It’s not looking good. Either way you spin it, if Andy did know about all the News of the World’s illegal phone hacking or not, the damage has already been done.
As these allegations keep resurfacing they can’t just be swept under the carpet. It’s difficult enough as it is to keep a coalition government together, let alone having to deal with persistent questions about the ethical persuasions of its staff.
If more reporters come forward there is a real danger that this story could come back to haunt the Prime Minister if Coulson stays on board. Viva says, stand down to prevent any further damage to the reputation he is supposed to be protecting.
Of course, Coulson should go. He's now become the story and this has been ongoing for some time. Whether Cameron, who has nailed his colours to Coulson in the past and indeed fought for him to take the job in the first place, will take the necessary action, I doubt.
Posted 2010-09-07 15:35:03
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