I think if anything is clear from all this is that freedom of speech and a free press is of vital importance for accurate and useful information that concerns the welfare of our entire species.
First, the Telegraph doesn't have an speech, but incoherent ramblings. The Telegraph it's a tabloid.
In this case they are straight-forwardly reporting on an investigation by the Times, so trashing the source doesn't seem relevant or necessary.
It has no sense to use virii as weapons. Everyone could be infected, your own army too. Even with a vaccine, the outcome can change with unexpected ways.
I happen to agree, but that doesn't stop billions being spent on biodefense / biowarfare.
The lines can get a bit blurry because a lot of that type of research is "dual use".