Kurtz points to the exemplary work many investigative journalists have done in exposing corruption in the upper echelons of U.S. government.  He worries that the recent slew of budget cuts will mean “fewer bodies to pore over records at City Hall, the statehouse or federal agencies."

Asks Kurtz: “with newspaper circulation and network news viewership declining, how long can such organizations sustain this [high] level of investigative reporting?”  An incredibly relevant question, as each week papers report new waves of serious layoffs.

Reuters chief executive Tom Glocer announced 30% cuts to the company’s travel and entertainment budget.  The very idea of an “entertainment” budget is a bit suspect, but the travel constraints have gotten some employees hot and bothered.  In a news organization defined by its international character, journalists fear that the cuts will undermine their work.

Said one anonymous staff member: “"And we resent that Reuters journalists, who often report from hazardous and extremely difficult conditions to the highest professional standards, are being asked to work more and earn less, while Mr. Glocer and his policy goons enrich themselves for management initiatives that will only succeed in bringing editorial, the core of the Reuters brand, down to its knees."

Another valid grouse concerns the lack of plans to cut Glocer’s £2 million salary.

Sources: The Washington Post, Guardian