Q. Several years ago I had a well-respected broadsheet editor
to stay for the weekend. The house party included another friend who has since become a rising star in the world of politics. Last Sunday, as I leafed my way through the newspapers, I almost choked on my breakfast cereal when I saw a large photograph which included the editor, the politician, myself and assorted guests. I have since discovered that several other photographs, taken during this private house party, have appeared in the public domain. As I consider them to be friends, how should I express my disapproval to the former editor? And should I invite them back?
R.D., County Antrim A. Mete out the following punishment. Email the editor’s oldest friends asking if any of them have photographs of him in the days when he
was either a) local rep of the Campaign for Real Ale while a boy at Eton or b) a busy canvasser for the Slough Liberal Party? Once in possession of this embarrassing archive material, you will find other editors only too happy to disseminate it. Meanwhile I understand a muddle led to this uncharacteristic offence being committed so you can feel free to invite the editor back. You can express your disapproval, however, when issuing the invitation. Unnerve him with a verbal codicil delivered in non-jokey tones. ‘By the way — do you mind not bringing a camera? We’ve sold exclusive rights to the house party to Hello!’. Then stay silent while they bluster.
Previous page
