Neither Honest nor Dishonest

Has anybody found themselves at work in a position whereby they don't want to be completely honest (as it may compromise yourself, your position or another person), but can't - because of the honesty inherent as a result of having Asperger syndrome - be dishonest either?

My colleague - and former boss - confided something to me yesterday. It was the perception she feels about another colleague of ours whom she brought into the company.

This person's character is not, I believe, in keeping with the other people in the office or the culture of the organisation. In fact, I think she is a bit of a fish out of water.

My former boss mentioned to me that she thought the area that the new person is running may be dissolved and that she is under threat personally. She asked me what I thought. I prevaricated and said I didn't know which was probably right.

I can think back on numerous occasions throughout my career however, when I have afforded an opinion when I asked which has not gone down too well. Because of my Asperger I tend to be blunt or to use the words of my ex-boss: "you are always polite but not very subtle!"

There are times when I need to provide an opinion, but at the same time, not be "too" honest.

Has anybody any positive experiences of this and suggestions or techniques that could be deployed?