Stefan Rousseau / AP Photo
Most members of the News of the World staff had no idea that the paper would be close as a result of the phone hacking scandal. When News Corp executive Rebekah Brooks made the announcement on Thursday, most thought she would be announcing her own resignation. Jules Stenson, the head of features, said that “no one had an inkling” the paper would be closing. He said that when the announcement came, there were “gasps from members of the staff.” Some staffers expressed resentment towards Brooks. One reporter said, “If she had gone at the start of the week, we’d all still be employed. I hope she’s worth it for Rupert.” Staffers have been told they can apply for other jobs in the company, but their employment is uncertain. Thursday evening, they were headed to a pub.