On a major multidisciplinary project, sub-consultants asked by a newspaper for comments should:

On a major multidisciplinary project, sub-consultants asked by a newspaper for comments should:

• A. Comment publicly to provide context.
• B. Advise that they are unable to comment and refer the media to the prime consultant.
• C. Release their own independent statements about the project.
• D. Deny knowledge of the project.

Answer: (B)

When a major multidisciplinary project receives media inquiries, sub-consultants should not act as spokespersons for the project. They are not authorized to comment on behalf of the entire team, so the appropriate response is to say they cannot comment and direct the journalist to the prime consultant, who coordinates the project’s public communications. This keeps information accurate and consistent, protects client confidentiality, and avoids misinterpretation or conflicting statements. Other approaches—speaking publicly, issuing independent statements, or denying knowledge—can spread unvetted or misleading information and disrupt the project’s communications plan.

When a major multidisciplinary project receives media inquiries, sub-consultants should not act as spokespersons for the project. They are not authorized to comment on behalf of the entire team, so the appropriate response is to say they cannot comment and direct the journalist to the prime consultant, who coordinates the project’s public communications. This keeps information accurate and consistent, protects client confidentiality, and avoids misinterpretation or conflicting statements. Other approaches—speaking publicly, issuing independent statements, or denying knowledge—can spread unvetted or misleading information and disrupt the project’s communications plan.