a really tough question that i don't know how to answer - help pls

i write a monthly newsletter at work for which i solicit the insight of about 8 people (1 department) for content. without fail, one person NEVER provides any ideas, BUT that one person is my friend. The whole point of getting this departments insight is b/c they are privvy to info that I might not otherwise know so it is in their best interest to shoot me a quick email, but this one person never does. Well this past week I sent out my monthly solicitation email and the department head writes back and says 'can you please tell me who in the department doesn't provide feedback to you.'

The truthful answer would be my friend but she's my friend...I don't want to rat her out. How do I answer that question??? TIA!

ETA: My friend always says, whenever almost anything is asked of her from another dept that she is 'too busy.' granted, her position is indeed very stressful. however, nobody else in her dept ever has a problem getting back to me on this initiative, or anything else that is asked of them, ever.

Message edited 7/3/2009 10:01:50 PM.

Re: a really tough question that i don't know how to answer - help pls

I would ask -- verbally, not in writing -- your friend if she has any input and mention that you've been asked to tell friend's boss who has & hasn't provided input. This way, you're giving your friend the opportunity to contribute and letting her know that you have an obligation to her boss.

good luck!

Re: a really tough question that i don't know how to answer - help pls

I agree with the PP.. give her a heads up and let her give you something--maybe now that she knows the boss is checking up on her she'll contribute more freely. GL!

Re: a really tough question that i don't know how to answer - help pls

I agree. Give her a heads up.

Re: a really tough question that i don't know how to answer - help pls

Give her a head's up! It would not be unethical per se. She may be change her mind after you tell her that you cannot lie but you try to make it right by her too since she is your friend.