But it argued that its own continued publication would provide easier access to "quality" information for politicians and ordinary readers, as well as countering the spread of unfounded rumours.

BBC: Mixed messages for Iraq's media

We're in a more inter-connected world, more travel, news and rumours spread at the speed of light.

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Some media reports suggest that workers and school children there were sent home after the rumours began to spread, prompting the Philippines government to issue an official denial.

BBC: 'Radiation' text message is fake

"Originally we were informed it was a text message that had gone round the local area, but my understanding is that its now on Facebook and the rumours have really spread quite rapidly, " she said.

BBC: Social media slurs damage Planet Spice takings

Shares in Lycos rose sharply on Tuesday as rumours began to spread that the deal with USA Networks was doomed.

BBC: News | The Company File | Lycos takeover collapses

When schoolboys threw stones at several Sainsbury's outlets last month, it was thought that the rumours prompting them had been spread maliciously.

ECONOMIST: Cairene shoppers�� intifada

Its shares dropped sharply as rumours of the NBC Universal deal spread, and have not yet recovered.

ECONOMIST: Media

But rumours about his future had spread following the big-spending Ospreys' surprise loss in the quarter-final of the Heineken Cup at Saracens.

BBC: Ospreys coach Jones leaves region

Mr Singh's men spread rumours that Sonia would enter active politics for the first time and campaign for the party, something some in the party believe would ensure victory.

ECONOMIST: India

The rumours of its impending demise, it said after hiring sleuths to investigate, were being spread by two of its big competitors in Hong Kong.

ECONOMIST: Peregrine: hawk turned prey