"Public interest journalism": when does reporting turn into advocacy?

"Public interest journalism": when does reporting turn into advocacy?

Shibley Rahman has written an excellent post about the wilful inattention of healthcare journalists to the smears surrounding the reporting of MidStaffs: http://t.co/UjSNBq1gIY

It seems clear that cub journalist Shaun Lintern who proudly proclaims that he "helped expose Mid Staffs scandal" and that he's "proud to have worked with Cure" is now attacking public health doctor Gabriel Scally because he is contradicting the smears and distortions of Cure and supporters. His career and success are intertwined with the success of Cure, and he seems to have crossed the line between reporter of the news and an advocate for the Cure campaign. The Health Service Journal is often considered by NHS staff to be a government mouthpiece, but surely even they would distance themselves from Tweets like this:

1. Shaun Lintern ‏@ShaunLintern40m

   Where is Labour's detailed response to #Francis? How can we make judgements without? I want and need more from my opposition.

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   12:31 PM - 24 Nov 13 · Details
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2. Max Davie ‏@maxdavie21m

   @ShaunLintern they're not opposing you, Shaun. Or are they.... Jeremy?

If Shaun Lintern's opposition is the Labour Party, how can he claim to not be party political?