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Leveson inquiry: Lord Grade, Lord Hunt, Sir Christopher Meyer - live Leveson inquiry: Lord Grade, Lord Hunt, Sir Christopher Meyer - live
(40 minutes later)
5.14pm: Here is a summary of this afternoon's evidence:
• The PCC chairman, Lord Hunt, has set out recommendations for a "totally new [regulatory] body".
• Hunt said that Richard Desmond's Northern & Shell has agreed to join the new regulator.
• Northern & Shell said: "Things are looking encouraging."
• The reformed PCC should have the power to fine newspapers and compel them to join the new regulator, Lord Hunt said.
• Media veteran and PCC board member Lord Grade said that the PCC currently has no resource to be any more than a complaints handler.
5.09pm: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:
Northern & Shell: "We are in touch with Lord Hunt. Things are looking encouraging."
and
Will Nothern & Shell join the Hunt model PCC: "If the formula was right, then we'd consider it".
5.07pm: Lord Hunt has completed his evidence and the inquiry has finished for the day.
5.02pm: Leveson says he is anxious to ensure that the concerns of those who have given evidence are not ignored.
Hunt quotes the motto of Everton Football Club, nil satis nisi optimum ("nothing but the best is good enough").
4.58pm: Hunt says the industry needs a structure on which to build that does not rely on a Press Regulation Act. He says there is an unprecedented consensus over the proposed new architecture. Once the new structure is established "we can build on it, we can gain the trust of the public".
Leveson suggests that Hunt keeps the inquiry informed of his progress and "where the sticking points are" and maintain the momentum of his activities.
He says Hunt is likely to be asked to return for updates.
4.50pm: Hunt says he has not reached any conclusions on a third arm of the new PCC, which could award compensation and deal with complaints. However, he says he would want the contracts to encompass any third regulatory column. He asks Leveson if he has any thoughts on this.
Leveson says the contractual approach will "rob" the system of the opportunity of requring some form of arbitration.
Hunt says he has been reading the 2009 Irish Defamation Act.
Leveson says an Irish-type regulator could be independent and provide certain remedies, and presumbly it would be sufficiently for the legislation to identify the model and leave the organisation to get on with the process of organising codes and practices and so on. He adds that such a regulator could include an arbitral aspect.
4.47pm: Leveson says that Hunt's contractual model "says absolutely nothing to the public".
Hunt says the PCC would not stop a member of the public pursuing litigation instead of using the commission.
He adds that the new regulator should be built on an agreed definition of "the public interest".
4.45pm: Lord Hunt is asked whether there is anything to the point that the PCC has historically been led by Conservative peers.
Hunt, a Tory peer, says he has had more than his fair share of "derision" from the press but would "fight to the death" for the industry's right to express those views.
"The press is a mixture, I suppose, buy the fact it is a free press is probably our nation's greatest asset," Hunt adds.
4.43pm: Leveson asks whether the industry has moved quickly to coalesce around a new regulator out of a fear that something "worse" may be proposed by the inquiry.
Hunt says he disagrees. "You have opened the window of opportunity. I'd be keen to use the momentum of your inquiry to press on with reform," he tells Leveson.
Leveson says he positively encourages the work Hunt and others have done. However, he has concerns he would like considered.
4.41pm: The Guardian's Josh HAlliday has just tweeted:
Two hours ago the PCC looked a bit of a lame duck with Leveson leading the road to reform. Lord Hunt appears to have reversed roles.
4.38pm: Hunt says that self-regulation has a huge advantage in that it can adapt to circumstances.4.38pm: Hunt says that self-regulation has a huge advantage in that it can adapt to circumstances.
He adds that the new contract would necessarily need to be amended in a change of circumstances.He adds that the new contract would necessarily need to be amended in a change of circumstances.
He repeats his desire for the new regulator to have a "standards and compliance" arm and a "complaints and mediation" arm.He repeats his desire for the new regulator to have a "standards and compliance" arm and a "complaints and mediation" arm.
4.34pm: Jay says the new body would be subject to judicial review if it were underpinned by contract.4.34pm: Jay says the new body would be subject to judicial review if it were underpinned by contract.
Hunt concedes that this might be the case, but says judicial reviews are now commonplace.Hunt concedes that this might be the case, but says judicial reviews are now commonplace.
Jay remarks that the current PCC could be open to judicial review.Jay remarks that the current PCC could be open to judicial review.
4.32pm: Hunt is pressed on the rolling contract that newspapers could sign to be part of the new PCC.4.32pm: Hunt is pressed on the rolling contract that newspapers could sign to be part of the new PCC.
He says the terms of the contract could be "sufficiently wide" to cover concerns raised by Jay.He says the terms of the contract could be "sufficiently wide" to cover concerns raised by Jay.
4.31pm: Financial Times media correspondent Ben Fenton has just tweeted:4.31pm: Financial Times media correspondent Ben Fenton has just tweeted:
[Sounds to me as if Hunt has been talking to some pretty serious law-drafters about this. Is this a govt-backed suggestion?] #leveson[Sounds to me as if Hunt has been talking to some pretty serious law-drafters about this. Is this a govt-backed suggestion?] #leveson
He adds:He adds:
[I think if I was #leveson I wd be wondering if my inquiry wasn't being booted into long grass by an alliance of papers&pols][I think if I was #leveson I wd be wondering if my inquiry wasn't being booted into long grass by an alliance of papers&pols]
4.29pm: Jay puts forward a "cynical" view that the newspaper industry's "appetite for reform" could be characterised as a fear of statutory regulation.4.29pm: Jay puts forward a "cynical" view that the newspaper industry's "appetite for reform" could be characterised as a fear of statutory regulation.
Hunt says that having being in parliament for 35 years he is not sure he recognises cynicism any more.Hunt says that having being in parliament for 35 years he is not sure he recognises cynicism any more.
4.27pm: Hunt says that some in the industry thought there was an "implied contract" in signing up to the PCC, but there was not.4.27pm: Hunt says that some in the industry thought there was an "implied contract" in signing up to the PCC, but there was not.
He says the industry should "learn the lessons from history and make sure there is a proper contract in place".He says the industry should "learn the lessons from history and make sure there is a proper contract in place".
4.25pm: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted about Hunt's claim that Richard Desmond would sign up to a new press body:4.25pm: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted about Hunt's claim that Richard Desmond would sign up to a new press body:
...if that is true, that is significant. But Richard Desmond did not indicate that he would sign up to new regulator at Leveson....if that is true, that is significant. But Richard Desmond did not indicate that he would sign up to new regulator at Leveson.
4.24pm: 4.22pm: Jay asks Hunt how the new body will get people to join up. "By asking them," Hunt responds.4.24pm: 4.22pm: Jay asks Hunt how the new body will get people to join up. "By asking them," Hunt responds.
Hunt adds that Richard Desmond's Northern & Shell has agreed to join this new body.Hunt adds that Richard Desmond's Northern & Shell has agreed to join this new body.
Hunt is asked about incentives for publishers to sign up.Hunt is asked about incentives for publishers to sign up.
He repeats that there is an appetite for reform.He repeats that there is an appetite for reform.
Hunt's proposals include a five-year rolling contract for the publishers to sign up to.Hunt's proposals include a five-year rolling contract for the publishers to sign up to.
"The sword of Damocles hanging over the entire industry is the threat of statutory regulation," Hunt says."The sword of Damocles hanging over the entire industry is the threat of statutory regulation," Hunt says.
4.20pm: Financial Times media correspondent Ben Fenton has just tweeted:4.20pm: Financial Times media correspondent Ben Fenton has just tweeted:
Hunt sees real appetite for reform. [does #leveson see his inquiry being made redundant, though? Hunt seems to have put tanks on lawn.]Hunt sees real appetite for reform. [does #leveson see his inquiry being made redundant, though? Hunt seems to have put tanks on lawn.]
4.19pm: The PCC has been "very unfairly criticised for failing to exercise powers that it never had," says Hunt.4.19pm: The PCC has been "very unfairly criticised for failing to exercise powers that it never had," says Hunt.
Leveson says that the PCC's articles of association could have been construed to give it a great deal more power and that it was more a question of resource.Leveson says that the PCC's articles of association could have been construed to give it a great deal more power and that it was more a question of resource.
Hunt says that PCC "never felt it had that power" and is not convinced that a lack of resource hamstrung the commission.Hunt says that PCC "never felt it had that power" and is not convinced that a lack of resource hamstrung the commission.
4.19pm: Hunt says he has attempted to lift what Sir David Calcutt wanted into this age.4.19pm: Hunt says he has attempted to lift what Sir David Calcutt wanted into this age.
He adds that today there is a "completely different" appetite for press reform among the industry than when Calcutt presented his proposals in 1993/94.He adds that today there is a "completely different" appetite for press reform among the industry than when Calcutt presented his proposals in 1993/94.
4.16pm: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:4.16pm: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:
Hunt's big idea is that a new PCC would have teeth because newspapers/owners would sign legal *contracts* with it.Hunt's big idea is that a new PCC would have teeth because newspapers/owners would sign legal *contracts* with it.
He adds:He adds:
Contract model is neat because it gives new PCC power over newspapers, without need for statute. Maintains independence of system.Contract model is neat because it gives new PCC power over newspapers, without need for statute. Maintains independence of system.
4.15pm: Hunt suggests an independent review of the code of conduct.4.15pm: Hunt suggests an independent review of the code of conduct.
He adds that the new system needs "formal legal underpinning" so that it can enforce sanctions, including financial penalties.He adds that the new system needs "formal legal underpinning" so that it can enforce sanctions, including financial penalties.
Hunt says the new PCC functions and powers could be set up without legislation, but with formal contracts.Hunt says the new PCC functions and powers could be set up without legislation, but with formal contracts.
He says the body should be "recognised by statute" rather than having its operation set out by statute.He says the body should be "recognised by statute" rather than having its operation set out by statute.
4.13pm: Hunt says it is encouraging that there is a "consensus for widespread reform". All media players "accept that radical reform is an urgent necessity".4.13pm: Hunt says it is encouraging that there is a "consensus for widespread reform". All media players "accept that radical reform is an urgent necessity".
4.10pm: Hunt says that a new press body should have two arms: one that deals with complaints and mediation; and one that audits and enforces standards and compliance with the editors' code.4.10pm: Hunt says that a new press body should have two arms: one that deals with complaints and mediation; and one that audits and enforces standards and compliance with the editors' code.
He adds that a named individual in each organisation should be responsible for compliance.He adds that a named individual in each organisation should be responsible for compliance.
There should be an annual audit to ensure compliance.There should be an annual audit to ensure compliance.
The body would be underpinned by a commercial contract with publishers.The body would be underpinned by a commercial contract with publishers.
4.09pm: The existing PCC structure is not viable and needs to be replaced, Hunt says in his written statement, which has now been published on the Leveson inquiry website.4.09pm: The existing PCC structure is not viable and needs to be replaced, Hunt says in his written statement, which has now been published on the Leveson inquiry website.
4.06pm: Hunt says there is an appetite in the industry to include some provisions in the draft defamation bill, which made its way through parliament last year.4.06pm: Hunt says there is an appetite in the industry to include some provisions in the draft defamation bill, which made its way through parliament last year.
4.03pm: Hunt held a meeting on 15 December 2011 with "editors, publishers and senior industry figures" to present his proposals.4.03pm: Hunt held a meeting on 15 December 2011 with "editors, publishers and senior industry figures" to present his proposals.
His desire to start with a blank piece of paper was welcomed, he says.His desire to start with a blank piece of paper was welcomed, he says.
Hunt adds that there was "consensus" on the right way forward; it is now time to get on with it.Hunt adds that there was "consensus" on the right way forward; it is now time to get on with it.
4.01pm: Hunt says in his statement that a weakness of the PCC is the absence of formal legal powers, for example in its handling of the phone-hacking affair.4.01pm: Hunt says in his statement that a weakness of the PCC is the absence of formal legal powers, for example in its handling of the phone-hacking affair.
An obvious feature of any regulatory system is to ensure that complaints mechanisms with newspapers work well, he says.An obvious feature of any regulatory system is to ensure that complaints mechanisms with newspapers work well, he says.
3.59pm: Hunt says there is a need for a separate standards arm alongside the complaints arm. He suggests that the new body could incorporate a third arm, to deal with small legal disputes.3.59pm: Hunt says there is a need for a separate standards arm alongside the complaints arm. He suggests that the new body could incorporate a third arm, to deal with small legal disputes.
"This new structure is sorely needed. We do need a fresh start and a totally new body with substantially increased powers … all backed by commercial contracts," he tells the inquiry."This new structure is sorely needed. We do need a fresh start and a totally new body with substantially increased powers … all backed by commercial contracts," he tells the inquiry.
3.52pm: Hunt says he strongly agrees with Leveson that "tinkering around the edges" of press regulation will not suffice.3.52pm: Hunt says he strongly agrees with Leveson that "tinkering around the edges" of press regulation will not suffice.
"This is a tremendous opportunity for the press themselves to come forward with the sort of system that Sir David Calcutt was asking for [in 1993/94]," he says. "But not by statute"."This is a tremendous opportunity for the press themselves to come forward with the sort of system that Sir David Calcutt was asking for [in 1993/94]," he says. "But not by statute".
3.51pm: Hunt says that he is opposed to statutory regulation. He argues that "the road to parliamentary hell is paved with good intentions".3.51pm: Hunt says that he is opposed to statutory regulation. He argues that "the road to parliamentary hell is paved with good intentions".
3.51pm: There are very strong views in parliament that there should be stronger limits on the powers of the press, Hunt says.3.51pm: There are very strong views in parliament that there should be stronger limits on the powers of the press, Hunt says.
It would be a wonderful moment for parliament if they were given the opportunity to debate new legislation on the press.It would be a wonderful moment for parliament if they were given the opportunity to debate new legislation on the press.
He says that politicians would use legislation to control the press. "They have told me so. Many of them, in both houses," he tells Leveson.He says that politicians would use legislation to control the press. "They have told me so. Many of them, in both houses," he tells Leveson.
3.45pm: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:3.45pm: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:
Hunt "Sir Christopher and I go back a long way and I can't recall a time where he has agreed with me". (So much for the past at the PCC)Hunt "Sir Christopher and I go back a long way and I can't recall a time where he has agreed with me". (So much for the past at the PCC)
3.45pm: The PCC has some features of a regulator, Hunt says, and the proposed new body would be a regulator. "I regard that as a huge difference," he adds.3.45pm: The PCC has some features of a regulator, Hunt says, and the proposed new body would be a regulator. "I regard that as a huge difference," he adds.
3.43pm: Hunt, who was in the government during the Calcutt report, says that he looked at the powers of the PCC and concluded that the commission was not a regulator.3.43pm: Hunt, who was in the government during the Calcutt report, says that he looked at the powers of the PCC and concluded that the commission was not a regulator.
The interview reads:The interview reads:
Does he at least recognise why the PCC has run into trouble? He refuses to be drawn, but he concedes that the commission, though recognised for its mediation and arbitration work, has not been a regulator.Does he at least recognise why the PCC has run into trouble? He refuses to be drawn, but he concedes that the commission, though recognised for its mediation and arbitration work, has not been a regulator.
He says: "The important thing is to try to get a balance between a complaints handling service and a regulatory approach, and speaking as a lawyer, these are separate matters, and if there has been a difficulty in the past, it is that people have confused the two." This seems to imply that he will seek to find a way of fusing the two strands, which might conceivably save the PCC.He says: "The important thing is to try to get a balance between a complaints handling service and a regulatory approach, and speaking as a lawyer, these are separate matters, and if there has been a difficulty in the past, it is that people have confused the two." This seems to imply that he will seek to find a way of fusing the two strands, which might conceivably save the PCC.
"I thought I was stating the obvious. And suddenly I realised that everyone agreed with me," he says."I thought I was stating the obvious. And suddenly I realised that everyone agreed with me," he says.
3.40pm: Hunt says he was interviewed for the PCC chairmanship by a panel headed by Lord Black.3.40pm: Hunt says he was interviewed for the PCC chairmanship by a panel headed by Lord Black.
He confirms that Lord Wakeham suggested that Hunt put himself forward for the PCC role, as reported by Roy Greenslade in a Guardian interview in November 2011.He confirms that Lord Wakeham suggested that Hunt put himself forward for the PCC role, as reported by Roy Greenslade in a Guardian interview in November 2011.
3.39pm: Hunt says that Britain's press freedom is "much envied" across the world.3.39pm: Hunt says that Britain's press freedom is "much envied" across the world.
3.38pm: Dan Sabbagh has this report on three letters that have just been published by the Commons culture, media and sport select committee which is inquiring into phone hacking at the News of the World.3.38pm: Dan Sabbagh has this report on three letters that have just been published by the Commons culture, media and sport select committee which is inquiring into phone hacking at the News of the World.
The first letter is from the Metropolitan police. The police have refused to tell the MPs on the committee the identity of the "all MPs and peers whose voicemails have been illegally accessed".The first letter is from the Metropolitan police. The police have refused to tell the MPs on the committee the identity of the "all MPs and peers whose voicemails have been illegally accessed".
Gordon Briggs, a detective chief superintendent with the Met, says that the force cannot to do because it would require the police to "disclose private information concerning third parties without their consent".Gordon Briggs, a detective chief superintendent with the Met, says that the force cannot to do because it would require the police to "disclose private information concerning third parties without their consent".
James Murdoch's letter says that he has nothing further to say about allegations that MPs on the culture, media and sport committee were put under surveillance by the News of the World.James Murdoch's letter says that he has nothing further to say about allegations that MPs on the culture, media and sport committee were put under surveillance by the News of the World.
Murdoch was asked to explain what a meeting he held in his office on 13 June 2008 on the subject of "Privacy Lawsuits" (he had previously given the committee access to his diary for some of 2008).Murdoch was asked to explain what a meeting he held in his office on 13 June 2008 on the subject of "Privacy Lawsuits" (he had previously given the committee access to his diary for some of 2008).
Murdoch says that he did "not believe" the Gordon Taylor case was discussed at the meeting, at which John Witherow, James Harding, Rebekah Brooks and Colin Myler were amongst those present, and that it would have been not appropriate to do so.Murdoch says that he did "not believe" the Gordon Taylor case was discussed at the meeting, at which John Witherow, James Harding, Rebekah Brooks and Colin Myler were amongst those present, and that it would have been not appropriate to do so.
Instead the meeting was to discuss various "privacy issues" facing the press, in the wake of the Max Mosley legal battle.Instead the meeting was to discuss various "privacy issues" facing the press, in the wake of the Max Mosley legal battle.
James Murdoch also says, following the recent coverage around the settlement of civil cases, in which he wants to "confirm again" that "I was not aware of evidence of widespread wrongdoing and did not seek to conceal it, as I have made clear in my previous testimony".James Murdoch also says, following the recent coverage around the settlement of civil cases, in which he wants to "confirm again" that "I was not aware of evidence of widespread wrongdoing and did not seek to conceal it, as I have made clear in my previous testimony".
The third letter is mainly technical evidence from Linklaters, the lawyers advising News Corp's management and standards committee.The third letter is mainly technical evidence from Linklaters, the lawyers advising News Corp's management and standards committee.
3.34pm: The inquiry has now resumed and Lord Hunt, current chairman of the PCC, has taken the stand.3.34pm: The inquiry has now resumed and Lord Hunt, current chairman of the PCC, has taken the stand.
Lord Justice Leveson notes that both he and Hunt wen to the same school, Liverpool College – albeit seven years apart.
3.25pm: Grade has now completed his evidence and the inquiry is taking a short break.3.25pm: Grade has now completed his evidence and the inquiry is taking a short break.
3.25pm: Grade suggests that the newspaper industry could accept a new regulator on which serving editors were not present.3.25pm: Grade suggests that the newspaper industry could accept a new regulator on which serving editors were not present.
He assures the inquiry that Paul Dacre "is not rewriting the code" to ensure the Daily Mail gets up to "mischievousness".He assures the inquiry that Paul Dacre "is not rewriting the code" to ensure the Daily Mail gets up to "mischievousness".
Independence has to go "right through the constitution", Grade says.Independence has to go "right through the constitution", Grade says.
3.16pm: Leveson asks whether the PCC is a regulator or just a complaints body.3.16pm: Leveson asks whether the PCC is a regulator or just a complaints body.
Grade answers that the body doesn't have the resources to do more than it does currently.Grade answers that the body doesn't have the resources to do more than it does currently.
Leveson counters that it could ask editors more about problems.Leveson counters that it could ask editors more about problems.
Grade points out that newspapers are facing intensifying competition and other pressures.Grade points out that newspapers are facing intensifying competition and other pressures.
Leveson says he is keen that the industry ensures there is a system that the public would accept and not "just attempt to moderate me … so that business carries on as much as is possible".Leveson says he is keen that the industry ensures there is a system that the public would accept and not "just attempt to moderate me … so that business carries on as much as is possible".
3.14pm: Grade is asked about whether he was asked about the balance between Article 8 (right to privacy) and Article 10 (right to freedom of expression) in his interview.3.14pm: Grade is asked about whether he was asked about the balance between Article 8 (right to privacy) and Article 10 (right to freedom of expression) in his interview.
He says he has worked in a senior editorial role in several broadcasting organisations and is used to dealing with such issues.He says he has worked in a senior editorial role in several broadcasting organisations and is used to dealing with such issues.
3.11pm: Debates among PCC commissioners are "very very fair", says Grade, adding that members leave the room if a discussion involves a paper from within their group.3.11pm: Debates among PCC commissioners are "very very fair", says Grade, adding that members leave the room if a discussion involves a paper from within their group.
He says he would not stay at the PCC if there was an issue over influence among editors on the commission.He says he would not stay at the PCC if there was an issue over influence among editors on the commission.
3.10pm: The PCC has been "starved of rations" and has barely enough resources to do what it does now, Grade says.3.10pm: The PCC has been "starved of rations" and has barely enough resources to do what it does now, Grade says.
PCC staff are "underpaid, overworked, overstretched", editors do not recognise the hard work that they do, and the budget is "ridiculous", he tells the inquiry.PCC staff are "underpaid, overworked, overstretched", editors do not recognise the hard work that they do, and the budget is "ridiculous", he tells the inquiry.
3.10pm: Grade says he thinks there should be "total separation" between the financing of the PCC and its operation.3.10pm: Grade says he thinks there should be "total separation" between the financing of the PCC and its operation.
"The fact that Pressbof controls the purse strings leaves them in the position where they can have a huge influence on the constitution [of the PCC] – I don't think that's healthy," he says."The fact that Pressbof controls the purse strings leaves them in the position where they can have a huge influence on the constitution [of the PCC] – I don't think that's healthy," he says.
Pressbof should me "more than an arm's length away" from involvement in appointments to the commission, he adds.Pressbof should me "more than an arm's length away" from involvement in appointments to the commission, he adds.
3.08pm: Grade says what has surprised him the most about the PCC is the extent of pre-publication warnings to stop "the worst excesses".3.08pm: Grade says what has surprised him the most about the PCC is the extent of pre-publication warnings to stop "the worst excesses".
3.08pm: Grade recommends a "contractual relationship" between publishers and the new regulator.3.08pm: Grade recommends a "contractual relationship" between publishers and the new regulator.
3.05pm: Our colleague Lisa O'Carroll has picked up on Lord Justice Leveson's comment about BSkyB, tweeting:3.05pm: Our colleague Lisa O'Carroll has picked up on Lord Justice Leveson's comment about BSkyB, tweeting:
#leveson. Did leveson just drop hint he will call Jeremy hunt. says 'might be we will learn a bit more about that (bskyb bid) in due course'#leveson. Did leveson just drop hint he will call Jeremy hunt. says 'might be we will learn a bit more about that (bskyb bid) in due course'
3.03pm: Financial Times media correspondent Ben Fenton has just tweeted:3.03pm: Financial Times media correspondent Ben Fenton has just tweeted:
Grade says it's essential new body has teeth. Visible, tangible painful means of sanction, yes. #leveson [& did you bring yr CV, Lord G?]Grade says it's essential new body has teeth. Visible, tangible painful means of sanction, yes. #leveson [& did you bring yr CV, Lord G?]
3.02pm: Grade says the power to enact fines is "essential" for a press regulator.3.02pm: Grade says the power to enact fines is "essential" for a press regulator.
He adds that the difficulty is how a regulator can have "visible, painful, tangible powers of sanction" and keep all publishers "inside the tent".He adds that the difficulty is how a regulator can have "visible, painful, tangible powers of sanction" and keep all publishers "inside the tent".
Grade suggests that membership of the new body would act as an aid in defence of privacy and libel. This would be an incentive to join, he tells the inquiry.Grade suggests that membership of the new body would act as an aid in defence of privacy and libel. This would be an incentive to join, he tells the inquiry.
2.58pm: Statutory recognition of a body that is entirely independent of politicians and proprietors "seems a very important way forward," says Grade.2.58pm: Statutory recognition of a body that is entirely independent of politicians and proprietors "seems a very important way forward," says Grade.
Leveson says he entirely agrees, with the usual caveat that he has not yet come to any conclusions.Leveson says he entirely agrees, with the usual caveat that he has not yet come to any conclusions.
"I'm not in any way encouraged to believe the government, politicians, the legislature, the judiciary or proprietors should have ownership" of a new body, the judge adds."I'm not in any way encouraged to believe the government, politicians, the legislature, the judiciary or proprietors should have ownership" of a new body, the judge adds.
2.56pm: Leveson asks Grade to consider a framework that could allow an independent body to carry out its work.2.56pm: Leveson asks Grade to consider a framework that could allow an independent body to carry out its work.
Grade is an advocate of "incentives" to encourage publishers to be part of a new regulatory body.Grade is an advocate of "incentives" to encourage publishers to be part of a new regulatory body.
However, he says he worries about the parliamentary process and the ability to get legislation through without being mangled.However, he says he worries about the parliamentary process and the ability to get legislation through without being mangled.
2.52pm: Grade says he does not believe that statutory regulation would have a chilling effect on investigative journalism, pointing to investigative TV programmes which he describes as "heavily regulated".2.52pm: Grade says he does not believe that statutory regulation would have a chilling effect on investigative journalism, pointing to investigative TV programmes which he describes as "heavily regulated".
However, he says he has two objections to statutory regulation:However, he says he has two objections to statutory regulation:
First, statutory regulation would raise the prospect of judicial review, and the complaints process would be slower. For example, the BBC Trust dealt quickly with the Jonathan Ross/Russell Brand controversy, while statutory regulator Ofcom took months to issue a judgment.First, statutory regulation would raise the prospect of judicial review, and the complaints process would be slower. For example, the BBC Trust dealt quickly with the Jonathan Ross/Russell Brand controversy, while statutory regulator Ofcom took months to issue a judgment.
Second, he has concerns over a statutory body taking over powers to intervene with newspapers pre-publication. The influence of the PCC pre-publication and on harassment "could be misunderstood" by politicians, Grade says.Second, he has concerns over a statutory body taking over powers to intervene with newspapers pre-publication. The influence of the PCC pre-publication and on harassment "could be misunderstood" by politicians, Grade says.
2.47pm: Grade says he was asked in his PCC interview whether he supported statutory regulation, to which he outlined the reasons why he did not.2.47pm: Grade says he was asked in his PCC interview whether he supported statutory regulation, to which he outlined the reasons why he did not.
2.47pm: Lord Grade was chairman of the BBC between 2004 and 2006. He was appointed to the PCC in May last year.2.47pm: Lord Grade was chairman of the BBC between 2004 and 2006. He was appointed to the PCC in May last year.
2.46pm: Lord Grade, a serving PCC commissioner and veteran media executive, has taken the stand.2.46pm: Lord Grade, a serving PCC commissioner and veteran media executive, has taken the stand.
2.45pm: Meyer has now completed his evidence.2.45pm: Meyer has now completed his evidence.
2.45pm: Meyer raises the now-abandoned BSkyB takeover attempt by News Corp before Leveson interjects and says: "Yes, well it might be that we learn more about that."2.45pm: Meyer raises the now-abandoned BSkyB takeover attempt by News Corp before Leveson interjects and says: "Yes, well it might be that we learn more about that."
2.42pm: Lord Justice Leveson asks Meyer to what extent newspapers used links to politicians to affect policy that affected the press. He cites privacy or competition law.2.42pm: Lord Justice Leveson asks Meyer to what extent newspapers used links to politicians to affect policy that affected the press. He cites privacy or competition law.
Meyer says that politicians have to make a decision about relationships with newspaper groups.Meyer says that politicians have to make a decision about relationships with newspaper groups.
The only subject Meyer can remember on which the press lobbied was privacy law. he says someone from News International came to visit him in Washington to talk to him on the issue in 1994 before he became government press secretary.The only subject Meyer can remember on which the press lobbied was privacy law. he says someone from News International came to visit him in Washington to talk to him on the issue in 1994 before he became government press secretary.
"The press at that time was lobbying very hard not to have a privacy law … but the intrinsic difficulties of drafting the white paper were already sufficient to kill the project," he tells Leveson."The press at that time was lobbying very hard not to have a privacy law … but the intrinsic difficulties of drafting the white paper were already sufficient to kill the project," he tells Leveson.
2.36pm: Meyer says a privacy law was drafted by the Major government before his time as press secretary. He adds that it was redrafted several times, then shelved, partly because the government did not wasnt to antagonise the press.2.36pm: Meyer says a privacy law was drafted by the Major government before his time as press secretary. He adds that it was redrafted several times, then shelved, partly because the government did not wasnt to antagonise the press.
2.33pm: Meyer admits editors try to influence government policies and appointments. He adds that contacts between politicians and the press "are as old as sin itself".2.33pm: Meyer admits editors try to influence government policies and appointments. He adds that contacts between politicians and the press "are as old as sin itself".
Jay notes: "We may be in the realms of sin because private contacts are anti-democratic."Jay notes: "We may be in the realms of sin because private contacts are anti-democratic."
Jay asks Meyer a concrete example of private contacts between a prime minister and a proprietor in an attempt to influence policy.Jay asks Meyer a concrete example of private contacts between a prime minister and a proprietor in an attempt to influence policy.
Meyer says he needed notice of this question "but I can remember people coming in".Meyer says he needed notice of this question "but I can remember people coming in".
Jay concedes that he should have given Meyer notice of the question.Jay concedes that he should have given Meyer notice of the question.
2.32pm: Meyer says the government attempted to "get in" with Rupert Murdoch, but it "failed utterly" because Murdoch thought Major was "a loser".2.32pm: Meyer says the government attempted to "get in" with Rupert Murdoch, but it "failed utterly" because Murdoch thought Major was "a loser".
2.28pm: Jay says in his witness statement, Meyer talks about "the cringing of politicians to the press" when he was John Major's press secretary and government spokesman from 1994 to 1997.2.28pm: Jay says in his witness statement, Meyer talks about "the cringing of politicians to the press" when he was John Major's press secretary and government spokesman from 1994 to 1997.
"Enormous" attention was paid to national newspaper editors in the early 1990s, Meyer says, adding: "It came down to an exaggerated belief of the influence of front-page stories.""Enormous" attention was paid to national newspaper editors in the early 1990s, Meyer says, adding: "It came down to an exaggerated belief of the influence of front-page stories."
Meyer was sceptical about the power of newspapers, he says, referring to his time in John Major's government.Meyer was sceptical about the power of newspapers, he says, referring to his time in John Major's government.
"There was a natural courting of those who supported the prime minister to keep them on board," he says."There was a natural courting of those who supported the prime minister to keep them on board," he says.
2.26pm: Jay continues reading from teh Guardian interview:2.26pm: Jay continues reading from teh Guardian interview:
He also points to his success in having stamped out the use of the phrase "illegal asylum seeker", but he is much more reticent when I ask him about his failures and his regrets. There is just one moment of contrition when I mention his recent Today programme debate with Sir David Bell, the founder of the Media Standards Trust, following the trust's highly critical report on the PCC that accused it of failing the public.He also points to his success in having stamped out the use of the phrase "illegal asylum seeker", but he is much more reticent when I ask him about his failures and his regrets. There is just one moment of contrition when I mention his recent Today programme debate with Sir David Bell, the founder of the Media Standards Trust, following the trust's highly critical report on the PCC that accused it of failing the public.
Meyer describes the Guardian interview as "good" and "fair". "I'm not going to quibble with him [Greenslade] on anything," he says.Meyer describes the Guardian interview as "good" and "fair". "I'm not going to quibble with him [Greenslade] on anything," he says.
2.26pm: Editors hate negative adjudications in their newspapers, Meyer tells the inquiry. He says this forces editors to move quickly to satisfy the complainant in another way.2.26pm: Editors hate negative adjudications in their newspapers, Meyer tells the inquiry. He says this forces editors to move quickly to satisfy the complainant in another way.
2.20pm: Meyer is asked about about an interview he did with the Guardian's Roy Greenslade in March 2009 titled "Watchdog or lapdog?".2.20pm: Meyer is asked about about an interview he did with the Guardian's Roy Greenslade in March 2009 titled "Watchdog or lapdog?".
Asked in the interview what needed to be improved about the PCC, Meyer said: "Not a lot."Asked in the interview what needed to be improved about the PCC, Meyer said: "Not a lot."
He added:He added:
I think it's improved a great deal over the last six years. I am not saying that we've reached a state of grace but it's in a state of permanent evolution and it's done jolly well.I think it's improved a great deal over the last six years. I am not saying that we've reached a state of grace but it's in a state of permanent evolution and it's done jolly well.
He stands by that. "I think to have said a hell of a lot would have been perverse," Meyer says. "I would rest on those words even now".He stands by that. "I think to have said a hell of a lot would have been perverse," Meyer says. "I would rest on those words even now".
Meyer admits he was criticised by Greenslade over the number of ajudications made by the PCC, but says it cannot "artificially inflate" them.Meyer admits he was criticised by Greenslade over the number of ajudications made by the PCC, but says it cannot "artificially inflate" them.
2.17pm: Meyer is asked about an article in The Sun in 2003 that labelled former boxer Frank Bruno "bonkers", after he was taken to a psychiatric hospital.2.17pm: Meyer is asked about an article in The Sun in 2003 that labelled former boxer Frank Bruno "bonkers", after he was taken to a psychiatric hospital.
The PCC censured the Sun over the article, but the then Sun editor, Rebekah Wade, sent Meyer a terse reply.The PCC censured the Sun over the article, but the then Sun editor, Rebekah Wade, sent Meyer a terse reply.
Meyer describes the Sun's response to the criticism as "silly".Meyer describes the Sun's response to the criticism as "silly".
Jay points out that Meyer's note at the time said "lunch in the new year" and asks if this was a tough enough response.Jay points out that Meyer's note at the time said "lunch in the new year" and asks if this was a tough enough response.
Meyer responds that he met each of the editors once a year.Meyer responds that he met each of the editors once a year.
2.12pm: Meyer is asked about Richard Desmond allegedly not paying a Newspaper Publishers' Association (NPA, funding body for the PCC) fee in 2008.2.12pm: Meyer is asked about Richard Desmond allegedly not paying a Newspaper Publishers' Association (NPA, funding body for the PCC) fee in 2008.
Desmond was not interested in having discussions about the subscriptions, Meyer says.Desmond was not interested in having discussions about the subscriptions, Meyer says.
"I think once I'd gone he felt an impediment had been removed," he adds."I think once I'd gone he felt an impediment had been removed," he adds.
Jay suggests there was bad feeling between Desmond and Meyer over the former PCC chairman's Radio 4 interview in which he criticised the Daily Express editor, Peter Hill, over the paper's Madeleine McCann coverage.Jay suggests there was bad feeling between Desmond and Meyer over the former PCC chairman's Radio 4 interview in which he criticised the Daily Express editor, Peter Hill, over the paper's Madeleine McCann coverage.
"There was extremely bad feeling from Mr Desmond about that," Meyer says."There was extremely bad feeling from Mr Desmond about that," Meyer says.
2.12pm: Jay suggests that Meyer doubted the What Price Privacy? conclusions because he could not see the evidence.2.12pm: Jay suggests that Meyer doubted the What Price Privacy? conclusions because he could not see the evidence.
Meyer says he "needed actionable information - that was never given."Meyer says he "needed actionable information - that was never given."
2.11pm: Meyer is asked why the PCC did not call in editors over the information commissioner's What Price Privacy? and What Price PrivacyN ow? reports.2.11pm: Meyer is asked why the PCC did not call in editors over the information commissioner's What Price Privacy? and What Price PrivacyN ow? reports.
He says he did not call in editors to explain legal practices. If the PCC had been privy to evidence of unlawful practices then that might have been different, he suggests.He says he did not call in editors to explain legal practices. If the PCC had been privy to evidence of unlawful practices then that might have been different, he suggests.
"I wanted to see the beef, then we had something to say to the editors," Meyer says."I wanted to see the beef, then we had something to say to the editors," Meyer says.
2.05pm: Thomas went to the PCC editors' code of practice committee with a suggested revision for article 10 on (on clandestine devices and subterfuge) in early 2006.2.05pm: Thomas went to the PCC editors' code of practice committee with a suggested revision for article 10 on (on clandestine devices and subterfuge) in early 2006.
The exact revision was rejected by the committee, Meyer says, but the existing code was beefed up.The exact revision was rejected by the committee, Meyer says, but the existing code was beefed up.
Meyer says this was a "constructive" reaction from the PCC "which bore fruit".Meyer says this was a "constructive" reaction from the PCC "which bore fruit".
2.02pm: Meyer is asked about a meeting with the Information Commissioner's Office in January 2006.2.02pm: Meyer is asked about a meeting with the Information Commissioner's Office in January 2006.
He said in the meeting that the PCC "could not be seen as a general regulator".He said in the meeting that the PCC "could not be seen as a general regulator".
However, he says he repeatedly told the former information commissioner, Richard Thomas, that his office and the PCC could "complement each other" in their work.However, he says he repeatedly told the former information commissioner, Richard Thomas, that his office and the PCC could "complement each other" in their work.
2.01pm: The inquiry has restarted and Sir Christopher Meyer has resumed giving evidence.2.01pm: The inquiry has restarted and Sir Christopher Meyer has resumed giving evidence.
1.22pm: Here is a lunchtime summary of today's evidence so far:

• The former chairman of the PCC, Sir Christopher Meyer, has denied "inaction" over newspapers' Madeleine McCann coverage.		1.22pm: Here is a lunchtime summary of today's evidence so far:

• The former chairman of the PCC, Sir Christopher Meyer, has denied "inaction" over newspapers' Madeleine McCann coverage.
• Meyer said he told Peter Hill, the former editor of the Daily Express, he had to resign in wake of McCann libel payout.• Meyer said he told Peter Hill, the former editor of the Daily Express, he had to resign in wake of McCann libel payout.
• Meyer warned against statutory involvement in press regulation and against fines for newspapers.• Meyer warned against statutory involvement in press regulation and against fines for newspapers.
1.13pm: If you're looking for lunchtime reading, Dan Sabbagh has posted this analysis of News Corporation's response to developments at the Sun and elsewhere:1.13pm: If you're looking for lunchtime reading, Dan Sabbagh has posted this analysis of News Corporation's response to developments at the Sun and elsewhere:
Neither Rupert Murdoch, nor his son James, were told about the impending arrests of past and present Sun executives until the Saturday morning when they were taking place. The information was kept tightly within News Corp's Management & Standards Committee (MSC), run by Lord Grabiner, Will Lewis and Simon Greenberg, and whose operation is based at a separate building from the Wapping tower where the company's three newspapers are housed.Neither Rupert Murdoch, nor his son James, were told about the impending arrests of past and present Sun executives until the Saturday morning when they were taking place. The information was kept tightly within News Corp's Management & Standards Committee (MSC), run by Lord Grabiner, Will Lewis and Simon Greenberg, and whose operation is based at a separate building from the Wapping tower where the company's three newspapers are housed.
If you think that hard to believe, then consider this. The all-powerful MSC reckons that it cannot tip anybody off outside its ranks – because to do so could tempt whoever had been told to pass the details on. Nobody wants to see a Murdoch, or anybody else senior at the company exposed to the slightest charge of perverting the course of justice. So nobody – not Tom Mockridge, the CEO, nor Dominic Mohan, the editor of the Sun, knew: they just to have pick up the pieces.If you think that hard to believe, then consider this. The all-powerful MSC reckons that it cannot tip anybody off outside its ranks – because to do so could tempt whoever had been told to pass the details on. Nobody wants to see a Murdoch, or anybody else senior at the company exposed to the slightest charge of perverting the course of justice. So nobody – not Tom Mockridge, the CEO, nor Dominic Mohan, the editor of the Sun, knew: they just to have pick up the pieces.
Except, the MSC does not exist in isolation. Joel Klein, the lawyer turned News Corp education supremo, did know what evidence the MSC had turned up in its ongoing trawl of some 300m emails: he sits on the company board. And Klein, and Grabiner and Lewis et al must take their cue from somewhere: it seems obvious from what has happened that they have been given an instruction (in broad terms) to get to the bottom of what has happened at Wapping, regardless of who might be affected. There are not many places such an instruction can come from: either News Corp's board or executives called Murdoch.Except, the MSC does not exist in isolation. Joel Klein, the lawyer turned News Corp education supremo, did know what evidence the MSC had turned up in its ongoing trawl of some 300m emails: he sits on the company board. And Klein, and Grabiner and Lewis et al must take their cue from somewhere: it seems obvious from what has happened that they have been given an instruction (in broad terms) to get to the bottom of what has happened at Wapping, regardless of who might be affected. There are not many places such an instruction can come from: either News Corp's board or executives called Murdoch.
That marks a significant shift. Earlier this month, Mr Justice Vos complained about News Corp's policy of disclosure in the phone-hacking civil cases at a high court hearing. The presiding judge said that News Group Newspapers, the News Corp subsidiary that publishes the News of the World, had made "an admission of sorts" as regards its initial responses to the allegations in which News Corp "put out public statements that it knew to be false", that it had "deliberately deceived the police" and had destroyed evidence of wrongdoing including "a very substantial number of emails" as well as computers.That marks a significant shift. Earlier this month, Mr Justice Vos complained about News Corp's policy of disclosure in the phone-hacking civil cases at a high court hearing. The presiding judge said that News Group Newspapers, the News Corp subsidiary that publishes the News of the World, had made "an admission of sorts" as regards its initial responses to the allegations in which News Corp "put out public statements that it knew to be false", that it had "deliberately deceived the police" and had destroyed evidence of wrongdoing including "a very substantial number of emails" as well as computers.
You can read the full article here.You can read the full article here.
1.07pm: The inquiry has now broken for lunch.1.07pm: The inquiry has now broken for lunch.
1.05pm: Meyer emphasises: "We never saw the substance, Mr Jay."1.05pm: Meyer emphasises: "We never saw the substance, Mr Jay."
1.03pm: Meyer tells the inquiry that the Daily Mail's former managing editor, Robin Esther, appeared before the Commons culture committee and said there was nothing underhand going on, referring to the What Price Privacy Now? report.1.03pm: Meyer tells the inquiry that the Daily Mail's former managing editor, Robin Esther, appeared before the Commons culture committee and said there was nothing underhand going on, referring to the What Price Privacy Now? report.
Jay asks Meyer if he was being "a bit sneery" when he thanked Thomas for an "interesting read" when handed What Price Privacy Now?Jay asks Meyer if he was being "a bit sneery" when he thanked Thomas for an "interesting read" when handed What Price Privacy Now?
"Yeah, a bit," replies Meyer."Yeah, a bit," replies Meyer.
1.01pm: Meyer says Jay is giving the impression that the PPC was "inert, sitting there slackly with mouths hanging open".1.01pm: Meyer says Jay is giving the impression that the PPC was "inert, sitting there slackly with mouths hanging open".
However, he says the substance of the information commissioner's investigation was never revealed, even to a parliamentary committee.However, he says the substance of the information commissioner's investigation was never revealed, even to a parliamentary committee.
He adds that the PCC went into negotiation with the information commissioner to come up with a guidance note, but it got caught up in legal arguments.He adds that the PCC went into negotiation with the information commissioner to come up with a guidance note, but it got caught up in legal arguments.
12.58pm: Meyer said he would have had to have had "supernatural powers" to have known the implications of Operation Motorman in November 2003.12.58pm: Meyer said he would have had to have had "supernatural powers" to have known the implications of Operation Motorman in November 2003.
He says that Thomas gave him an impression that journalists would be taken to court over the Operation Motorman evidence.He says that Thomas gave him an impression that journalists would be taken to court over the Operation Motorman evidence.
That never happened. "It was all a bit of an anti-climax," says Meyer.That never happened. "It was all a bit of an anti-climax," says Meyer.
He says that editors were informed of the PCC's meetings with Thomas.He says that editors were informed of the PCC's meetings with Thomas.
"We were extremely worried about this … but we were also concerned that when the court case came it was nothing as advertised," he says."We were extremely worried about this … but we were also concerned that when the court case came it was nothing as advertised," he says.
12.57pm: Jay asks Meyer what he meant by notes from Thomas that say: "watershed. Scale of problem endemic. Knowledge of proprietors".12.57pm: Jay asks Meyer what he meant by notes from Thomas that say: "watershed. Scale of problem endemic. Knowledge of proprietors".
Meyer says he has no idea. "We're getting into Bletchley Park territory," he adds, referring to the famous enigma code-breaking facility.Meyer says he has no idea. "We're getting into Bletchley Park territory," he adds, referring to the famous enigma code-breaking facility.
12.56pm: Financial Times media correspondent Ben Fenton has just tweeted:12.56pm: Financial Times media correspondent Ben Fenton has just tweeted:
[Meyer just corpsed over a Rosetta Stone joke. Jay has joined him. It really wasn't very funny.] #leveson[Meyer just corpsed over a Rosetta Stone joke. Jay has joined him. It really wasn't very funny.] #leveson
12.54pm: Meyer is having trouble reading speaking notes from Thomas.

Meyer: This is like interpreting the Rosetta Stone, this. It's not possible.		12.54pm: Meyer is having trouble reading speaking notes from Thomas.

Meyer: This is like interpreting the Rosetta Stone, this. It's not possible.
Jay: It's not quite that hard - it's not in three languages.Jay: It's not quite that hard - it's not in three languages.
Meyer: [Laughs]Meyer: [Laughs]
12.52pm: Meyer says he went "on and on" at Thomas about being allowed access to the evidence behind its Operation Motorman report.12.52pm: Meyer says he went "on and on" at Thomas about being allowed access to the evidence behind its Operation Motorman report.
He says the PCC would have been able to "sharpen and hone" guidance to newspapers and "it might even have informed chances to the code of practice itself".He says the PCC would have been able to "sharpen and hone" guidance to newspapers and "it might even have informed chances to the code of practice itself".
12.51pm: Meyer said the PCC would have given the ICO evidence "whatever protection it needed", and suggests the commission was hamstrung in what action it could take.12.51pm: Meyer said the PCC would have given the ICO evidence "whatever protection it needed", and suggests the commission was hamstrung in what action it could take.
Meyer says he told Thomas at a meeting: "Give me names, give me evidence. Just using inquiry agents isn't good enough."Meyer says he told Thomas at a meeting: "Give me names, give me evidence. Just using inquiry agents isn't good enough."
Thomas was the only person that could provide the PCC with the evidence of illegal use of data by newspapers, says Meyer.Thomas was the only person that could provide the PCC with the evidence of illegal use of data by newspapers, says Meyer.
Do you think I would have spent good PCC money on meetings with Mr Thomas at restaurants just to hear him burbling away? No, I wanted beef, Mr Jay, I wanted red meat.Do you think I would have spent good PCC money on meetings with Mr Thomas at restaurants just to hear him burbling away? No, I wanted beef, Mr Jay, I wanted red meat.
12.46pm: Meyer is asked about his dealings with the former information commissioner, Richard Thomas.12.46pm: Meyer is asked about his dealings with the former information commissioner, Richard Thomas.
He says that Thomas "laboured under the misapprehension" that the PCC had power to enforce the criminal law.He says that Thomas "laboured under the misapprehension" that the PCC had power to enforce the criminal law.
The PCC published guidance on the Data Protection Act in 2005, Meyer says.The PCC published guidance on the Data Protection Act in 2005, Meyer says.
Thomas told the PCC in December 2003 that "there are going to be journalists caught up in this; there are going to be court cases", according to Meyer.Thomas told the PCC in December 2003 that "there are going to be journalists caught up in this; there are going to be court cases", according to Meyer.
Meyer says he wanted evidence on who was hiring inquiry agents "and he [Thomas] was unwilling to do that".Meyer says he wanted evidence on who was hiring inquiry agents "and he [Thomas] was unwilling to do that".
12.41pm: Meyer tells Jay that people have confidence in the PCC which "you seem, frankly, to ignore".12.41pm: Meyer tells Jay that people have confidence in the PCC which "you seem, frankly, to ignore".
Jay says he is merely putting suggestions to the former PCC chairman.Jay says he is merely putting suggestions to the former PCC chairman.
Meyer reponds:Meyer reponds:

I hope you'll forgive me if I do from time to time push back, rather than sit here like a coconut.
I hope you'll forgive me if I do from time to time push back, rather than sit here like a coconut.
12.40pm: Meyer suggests that the newspaper industry would quickly begin to ignore the PCC if its chairman exhorted papers to act responsibly every time a contentious story broke.12.40pm: Meyer suggests that the newspaper industry would quickly begin to ignore the PCC if its chairman exhorted papers to act responsibly every time a contentious story broke.
Jay suggests that the PCC should stop the press coming up with stories to fit the supposed facts.Jay suggests that the PCC should stop the press coming up with stories to fit the supposed facts.
Meyer replies:Meyer replies:
"No. It is as if you say to the police 'you are useless because you can't stop crime'. Or to bishops 'you still have sin'. These are ridiculous arguments.""No. It is as if you say to the police 'you are useless because you can't stop crime'. Or to bishops 'you still have sin'. These are ridiculous arguments."
12.34pm: Jay suggests that if the PCC had taken a more proactive stance with the McCanns, it would not have gone so far in the 2010/11 Christopher Jefferies case. Eight newspapers paid damages to Jefferies for libellous allegations made against him following the murder of Joanna Yeates.12.34pm: Jay suggests that if the PCC had taken a more proactive stance with the McCanns, it would not have gone so far in the 2010/11 Christopher Jefferies case. Eight newspapers paid damages to Jefferies for libellous allegations made against him following the murder of Joanna Yeates.
Meyer disagrees, saying "don't drag me down that path".Meyer disagrees, saying "don't drag me down that path".
He adds that he was no longer PCC chairman at the time of the Jefferies case, saying he rejects Jay's attempt to draw parallels between the two cases.He adds that he was no longer PCC chairman at the time of the Jefferies case, saying he rejects Jay's attempt to draw parallels between the two cases.
Meyer says that the PCC has had success with media scrums and "stories relating to police sources".Meyer says that the PCC has had success with media scrums and "stories relating to police sources".
12.32pm: Meyer says in February 2008 he agreed with the McCanns that launching libel actions against newspapers, rather than going to the PCC, was the right course of action.12.32pm: Meyer says in February 2008 he agreed with the McCanns that launching libel actions against newspapers, rather than going to the PCC, was the right course of action.
12.31pm: "The PCC made it its business from the very beginning to say, 'we are here to help'," Meyer tells the inquiry. He adds that help was taken up "but only in an ancillary way".12.31pm: "The PCC made it its business from the very beginning to say, 'we are here to help'," Meyer tells the inquiry. He adds that help was taken up "but only in an ancillary way".
He says that if the McCanns did not want intervention, "You must respect complainants' wishes."He says that if the McCanns did not want intervention, "You must respect complainants' wishes."
12.28pm: Meyer says it was "screamingly obvious" what had gone wrong in relation to the McCann saga.12.28pm: Meyer says it was "screamingly obvious" what had gone wrong in relation to the McCann saga.
The McCanns needed the press for publicity's sake, he says, but it was a "Faustian" pact.The McCanns needed the press for publicity's sake, he says, but it was a "Faustian" pact.
The Portuguese police were "leaking like sieves" and journalists were under pressure to produce fresh stories, Meyer says.The Portuguese police were "leaking like sieves" and journalists were under pressure to produce fresh stories, Meyer says.
"It doesn't need a big review to see this. It happens from time to time," he adds. "It led to the McCanns being accused of something that is utterly abominable.""It doesn't need a big review to see this. It happens from time to time," he adds. "It led to the McCanns being accused of something that is utterly abominable."
12.26pm: Meyer says of Peter Hill: "It is inconceivable that he could stay on the commission." He adds that the commission decided Hill should be replaced as soon as possible.12.26pm: Meyer says of Peter Hill: "It is inconceivable that he could stay on the commission." He adds that the commission decided Hill should be replaced as soon as possible.
"It took longer for him to be replaced than it should have done," Meyer adds."It took longer for him to be replaced than it should have done," Meyer adds.
Jay suggests the PCC adopted a position of "doing nothing" to protect the McCanns.Jay suggests the PCC adopted a position of "doing nothing" to protect the McCanns.
Meyer disputes this, saying that the PCC put itself at the McCanns' disposal.Meyer disputes this, saying that the PCC put itself at the McCanns' disposal.
12.21pm: Meyer says it is "very unfair" to say that he acted too slowly to condemn the Express's coverage of the McCanns.12.21pm: Meyer says it is "very unfair" to say that he acted too slowly to condemn the Express's coverage of the McCanns.
The first Meyer heard of the Express Newspapers libel payout was on the radio on the morning it happened, he says.The first Meyer heard of the Express Newspapers libel payout was on the radio on the morning it happened, he says.
12.17pm: Meyer says he told Peter Hill, the former editor of the Daily Express, "you have to resign" after the Express Newspapers libel payout to the McCanns.12.17pm: Meyer says he told Peter Hill, the former editor of the Daily Express, "you have to resign" after the Express Newspapers libel payout to the McCanns.
"I said 'in effect you need to resign'," says Meyer. "He said 'I suppose I have to but I need to consult friends and colleagues.'""I said 'in effect you need to resign'," says Meyer. "He said 'I suppose I have to but I need to consult friends and colleagues.'"
Meyer then said he should resign as soon as possible, adding: "That was the last time I ever talked to him."Meyer then said he should resign as soon as possible, adding: "That was the last time I ever talked to him."
12.15pm: Meyer says he met McCann again in February 2008, by which time the couple had made a firm decision to go to law, and had engaged law firm Carter-Ruck for a libel case.12.15pm: Meyer says he met McCann again in February 2008, by which time the couple had made a firm decision to go to law, and had engaged law firm Carter-Ruck for a libel case.
Asked about what had taken place between July 2007 and January 2008, Meyer says:Asked about what had taken place between July 2007 and January 2008, Meyer says:
We did a lot. We were in pretty close contact with the press handlers [Clarence Mitchell] of the McCanns. We stood ready to intervene if they wanted it.We did a lot. We were in pretty close contact with the press handlers [Clarence Mitchell] of the McCanns. We stood ready to intervene if they wanted it.
You can't be more royalist than the king. You cannot wish to stop something more ardently than the king. But by that time I think they had chosen to go to the law.You can't be more royalist than the king. You cannot wish to stop something more ardently than the king. But by that time I think they had chosen to go to the law.
Meyer says he he understood that coverage of the McCanns was "not pleasant".Meyer says he he understood that coverage of the McCanns was "not pleasant".
It was pretty violent … and it was not pleasant to read. I have to say to you – this is so important - we made particular efforts to the McCanns to make ourselves available within 48 hours of Madeleine disappearing.It was pretty violent … and it was not pleasant to read. I have to say to you – this is so important - we made particular efforts to the McCanns to make ourselves available within 48 hours of Madeleine disappearing.
12.13pm: Meyer is asked about coverage of the disappearance of Madeleine McCann. Express Newspapers paid out £550,000 damages after the high court found it had published 100 'seriously defamatory' articles about her parents.12.13pm: Meyer is asked about coverage of the disappearance of Madeleine McCann. Express Newspapers paid out £550,000 damages after the high court found it had published 100 'seriously defamatory' articles about her parents.
He says he made it "perfectly plain" to Gerry McCann that it was either the legal route or the PCC.He says he made it "perfectly plain" to Gerry McCann that it was either the legal route or the PCC.
In July 2007, Meyer told McCann and his press handler what the options were if they believed they need to "take action" against a newspaper.In July 2007, Meyer told McCann and his press handler what the options were if they believed they need to "take action" against a newspaper.
12.10pm: Meyer says that he informally discussed whether the PCC code should be included in journalists' contracts with the NUJ general secretary, Jeremy Dear.12.10pm: Meyer says that he informally discussed whether the PCC code should be included in journalists' contracts with the NUJ general secretary, Jeremy Dear.
The PCC was constantly being asked by the NUJ to get involved with contractual disputes between its members and employers, Meyer says.The PCC was constantly being asked by the NUJ to get involved with contractual disputes between its members and employers, Meyer says.
12.07pm: Meyer is also asked about the CMS committee's recommendation that:12.07pm: Meyer is also asked about the CMS committee's recommendation that:
An additional element of the code should be that journalists are enabled to refuse an assignment on the grounds that it breaches the code and, if necessary, refer the matter to the commission without prejudice.An additional element of the code should be that journalists are enabled to refuse an assignment on the grounds that it breaches the code and, if necessary, refer the matter to the commission without prejudice.
He says this was also discussed but rejected.He says this was also discussed but rejected.
12.00pm: Meyer is asked about the Commons culture, media and sport committee's recommendation in its 2003 report Privacy and Media Intrusion that:12.00pm: Meyer is asked about the Commons culture, media and sport committee's recommendation in its 2003 report Privacy and Media Intrusion that:
The code should explicitly ban payments to the police for information and there should also be a ban on the use and payment of intermediaries, such as private detectives, to extract or otherwise obtain private information about individuals from public and private sources, again especially the police.The code should explicitly ban payments to the police for information and there should also be a ban on the use and payment of intermediaries, such as private detectives, to extract or otherwise obtain private information about individuals from public and private sources, again especially the police.
He says this was never implemented by the PCC because bribery was already covered by criminal law.He says this was never implemented by the PCC because bribery was already covered by criminal law.
"There was already a draconian sanction in law. And we couldn't get into the business of constantly duplicating the law in the code," Meyer says."There was already a draconian sanction in law. And we couldn't get into the business of constantly duplicating the law in the code," Meyer says.
11.55am: Hacked Off campaigner Thais Portilho-Shrimpton has just tweeted:11.55am: Hacked Off campaigner Thais Portilho-Shrimpton has just tweeted:
#leveson I'm pleased the inquiry has contributed something with which you agree Sir Christopher [after @sirsocks praised Leveson's idea]#leveson I'm pleased the inquiry has contributed something with which you agree Sir Christopher [after @sirsocks praised Leveson's idea]
(@sirsocks is the name of Meyer's Twitter account.)(@sirsocks is the name of Meyer's Twitter account.)
11.53am: Meyer says that he came to the view that the industry dominated both Pressbof and the PCC editors' code committee. He now believes that this balance was not right.11.53am: Meyer says that he came to the view that the industry dominated both Pressbof and the PCC editors' code committee. He now believes that this balance was not right.
11.52am: Meyer gives the example of a footballer who died in the middle of a match and was the subject of intrusive photographs, about which a number of third-party readers complained.11.52am: Meyer gives the example of a footballer who died in the middle of a match and was the subject of intrusive photographs, about which a number of third-party readers complained.
The PCC did not take up the complaints because the family wanted to let the matter rest.The PCC did not take up the complaints because the family wanted to let the matter rest.
11.51am: Meyer is asked about third-party complaints.11.51am: Meyer is asked about third-party complaints.
He says that "first party was king" – if they did not want to proceed with a complaint the PCC would not entertain third-party complaints.He says that "first party was king" – if they did not want to proceed with a complaint the PCC would not entertain third-party complaints.
Meyer adds that third-party complaints were not ruled out by the PCC, but that they were rare.Meyer adds that third-party complaints were not ruled out by the PCC, but that they were rare.
11.47am: Jay suggests that the PCC just jurisprudence, or legal theory, build up without taking action.11.47am: Jay suggests that the PCC just jurisprudence, or legal theory, build up without taking action.
Jurisprudence is "unbelievably important", Meyer says, claiming that editors believed that.Jurisprudence is "unbelievably important", Meyer says, claiming that editors believed that.
He disagrees with Jay's contention that proactive statements of principle would have been more effective than jurisprudence.He disagrees with Jay's contention that proactive statements of principle would have been more effective than jurisprudence.
11.47am: Meyer says it is inevitable that newspapers will continue to run inaccurate headlines on occasion, but that the situation "was improving".11.47am: Meyer says it is inevitable that newspapers will continue to run inaccurate headlines on occasion, but that the situation "was improving".
The PCC did endless seminars on drilling the code of conduct into journalists' working patterns, he adds.The PCC did endless seminars on drilling the code of conduct into journalists' working patterns, he adds.
11.43am: The inquiry has resumed and Meyer is asked about inaccurate and misleading headlines.11.43am: The inquiry has resumed and Meyer is asked about inaccurate and misleading headlines.
He says he told the industry in 2005 that the newspapers "can't go on like this" with disproportionate headlines.He says he told the industry in 2005 that the newspapers "can't go on like this" with disproportionate headlines.
"Yes, it was a concern and yes, we sought a crackdown on it," he adds."Yes, it was a concern and yes, we sought a crackdown on it," he adds.
Meyer says the industry knew "perfectly well" that the PCC was on to it over misleading headlines, even though the commission did not release a more formal guidance note.Meyer says the industry knew "perfectly well" that the PCC was on to it over misleading headlines, even though the commission did not release a more formal guidance note.
11.35am: The inquiry is now taking a short break.11.35am: The inquiry is now taking a short break.
11.35am: Meyer says that the PCC thought custodial sentences for section 55 breaches of the Data Protection Act would have been "pretty chilling to freedom of expression".11.35am: Meyer says that the PCC thought custodial sentences for section 55 breaches of the Data Protection Act would have been "pretty chilling to freedom of expression".
"If you think Mr Dacre picked up the phone one day and says 'very helpful if you stick in the review something about section 55' – forget it. Even Jack Straw was on his side," says Meyer."If you think Mr Dacre picked up the phone one day and says 'very helpful if you stick in the review something about section 55' – forget it. Even Jack Straw was on his side," says Meyer.
He asks Jay to "drop the amateur psychology".He asks Jay to "drop the amateur psychology".
11.33am: Financial Times media correspondent Ben Fenton has just tweeted:11.33am: Financial Times media correspondent Ben Fenton has just tweeted:
Meyer brings finger down on bundle with audible force to say "on oath" that he was not influenced by overweening editors. #levesonMeyer brings finger down on bundle with audible force to say "on oath" that he was not influenced by overweening editors. #leveson
11.30am: Meyer bristles when Jay says that to push for more control over complaints would have brought the commission into conflict with powerful people.11.30am: Meyer bristles when Jay says that to push for more control over complaints would have brought the commission into conflict with powerful people.
Jay asks if there was "collusion" between the PCC and editors. Meyer says he objects to the word "collusion" as it has a "whiff of poodle or lapdog". "If you think I was sitting in their pocket, think again Mr Jay."Jay asks if there was "collusion" between the PCC and editors. Meyer says he objects to the word "collusion" as it has a "whiff of poodle or lapdog". "If you think I was sitting in their pocket, think again Mr Jay."
"God knows I had my conflicts with the editors on all kinds of things. If you think I was sitting in their pocket not daring to do things that they did not like, think again Mr Jay," Meyer says."God knows I had my conflicts with the editors on all kinds of things. If you think I was sitting in their pocket not daring to do things that they did not like, think again Mr Jay," Meyer says.
He adds that once a year he took national newspaper editors to lunch, but attempted to keep some distance from them.He adds that once a year he took national newspaper editors to lunch, but attempted to keep some distance from them.
"Institutionally, obviously the PCC had to be close to the industry," he says."Institutionally, obviously the PCC had to be close to the industry," he says.
11.29am: Our colleague Lisa O'Carroll has just tweeted:11.29am: Our colleague Lisa O'Carroll has just tweeted:
#leveson ex diplomat Meyer losing cool. 'you keep trying to put words in my mouth mr Jay.You haven't the faintest idea when they (eds) said'#leveson ex diplomat Meyer losing cool. 'you keep trying to put words in my mouth mr Jay.You haven't the faintest idea when they (eds) said'
11.28am: Jay asks why Meyer did not agitate for more power over the prominence of apologies.11.28am: Jay asks why Meyer did not agitate for more power over the prominence of apologies.
Meyer says he was agitating over "so much else". He says it is much less of a problem than it was in 2003.Meyer says he was agitating over "so much else". He says it is much less of a problem than it was in 2003.
Jay describes it as a "real concern" to the public that the PCC cannot force newspapers to make prominent complaints.Jay describes it as a "real concern" to the public that the PCC cannot force newspapers to make prominent complaints.
"That was not what I was doing at the time. I had to make judgments," Meyer says. "We pushed and cajoled on this. Had I done another three years on this that would have been my priority.""That was not what I was doing at the time. I had to make judgments," Meyer says. "We pushed and cajoled on this. Had I done another three years on this that would have been my priority."
11.26am: Meyer is asked about the PCC's role in negotiating apologies.11.26am: Meyer is asked about the PCC's role in negotiating apologies.
He concedes that editors had the final say over what prominence to give apologies, but the PCC would have "made a fuss" if the placement was "ludicrous".He concedes that editors had the final say over what prominence to give apologies, but the PCC would have "made a fuss" if the placement was "ludicrous".
11.23am: Meyer says he did not think that prior notiification was an urgent matter that needed to be addressed.11.23am: Meyer says he did not think that prior notiification was an urgent matter that needed to be addressed.
He denies that any lack of action was due to opposition from editors on the commission; he says they were a "completely disunited group".He denies that any lack of action was due to opposition from editors on the commission; he says they were a "completely disunited group".
"You had a huge variation in views among the editors. There was usually more harmony among the non-editors than there was among the editors," he says."You had a huge variation in views among the editors. There was usually more harmony among the non-editors than there was among the editors," he says.
Pressed on this, Meyer says: "You keep putting words into my mouth, Mr Jay."Pressed on this, Meyer says: "You keep putting words into my mouth, Mr Jay."
11.18am: Jay asks if the PCC considered changing its code to include a requirement for pre-notification about stories.11.18am: Jay asks if the PCC considered changing its code to include a requirement for pre-notification about stories.
Meyer says it was considered but dismissed, as there might be a public interest justification reason not to notify the subjects of stories before publication.Meyer says it was considered but dismissed, as there might be a public interest justification reason not to notify the subjects of stories before publication.
11.13am: Meyer tells the inquiry how the PCC could have attempted to halt the publication of the News of the World's Max Mosley sting.11.13am: Meyer tells the inquiry how the PCC could have attempted to halt the publication of the News of the World's Max Mosley sting.
He says the PCC gave pre-publication advice "regularly".He says the PCC gave pre-publication advice "regularly".
"There would have been a big debate about whether the Nazi stuff affected the central argument," Meyer says."There would have been a big debate about whether the Nazi stuff affected the central argument," Meyer says.
11.12am: Meyer claims he has "stopped big stories from being published" on privacy or public interest grounds.11.12am: Meyer claims he has "stopped big stories from being published" on privacy or public interest grounds.
The PCC will always be charged with acting in the interest of the press, Meyer says, but one of tha advantages of being close to editors is "they respond in a different way".The PCC will always be charged with acting in the interest of the press, Meyer says, but one of tha advantages of being close to editors is "they respond in a different way".
11.10am: Meyer says that if Mosley had gone to the PCC before the News of the World published its story "the whole thing might have taken a different course".11.10am: Meyer says that if Mosley had gone to the PCC before the News of the World published its story "the whole thing might have taken a different course".
He says he would have urged the News of the World to reconsider its public interest argument.He says he would have urged the News of the World to reconsider its public interest argument.
11.08am: Meyer says one of his credos is that "There's a time for the law, and there's a time for the PCC."11.08am: Meyer says one of his credos is that "There's a time for the law, and there's a time for the PCC."
11.07am: Jay asks if Meyer read Mr Justice Eady's high court judgment that found in favour of Mosley.11.07am: Jay asks if Meyer read Mr Justice Eady's high court judgment that found in favour of Mosley.
"I thought he rendered a correct judgment," Meyer says, noting that that is his personal view. He says he found it hard to believe the News of the World sting was in the public interest."I thought he rendered a correct judgment," Meyer says, noting that that is his personal view. He says he found it hard to believe the News of the World sting was in the public interest.
11.05am: Meyer tells the inquiry that then Formula One boss Max Mosley was "extremely rude" about the PCC after he decided to launch a legal complaint against the News of the World rather than complain to the commission.11.05am: Meyer tells the inquiry that then Formula One boss Max Mosley was "extremely rude" about the PCC after he decided to launch a legal complaint against the News of the World rather than complain to the commission.
If he had gone to the PCC "we around the table – the commissioners – would have had a very interesting debate … and we would have found for him," he says.If he had gone to the PCC "we around the table – the commissioners – would have had a very interesting debate … and we would have found for him," he says.
11.04am: Meyer says "the fact there might have been a giant criminal conspiracy in the belly of the beast" was another matter from allegations of phone hacking at the News of the World which the PCC moved to examine.11.04am: Meyer says "the fact there might have been a giant criminal conspiracy in the belly of the beast" was another matter from allegations of phone hacking at the News of the World which the PCC moved to examine.
11.03am: Meyer says the virtue of Colin Myler at the News of the World was that he was a fresh pair of eyes who knew the industry well.11.03am: Meyer says the virtue of Colin Myler at the News of the World was that he was a fresh pair of eyes who knew the industry well.
11.01am: Jay asks about the PCC's sanctions for failing to comply with its rulings – or worse, misleading it.11.01am: Jay asks about the PCC's sanctions for failing to comply with its rulings – or worse, misleading it.
Meyer admits the PCC's articles of association do not say that an editor is in breach of its code if they do not comply with the body.Meyer admits the PCC's articles of association do not say that an editor is in breach of its code if they do not comply with the body.
10.58am: Meyer describes the PCC's 2007 report as "monumental". When Jay questions this, he accuses the QC of being "mean-spirited".10.58am: Meyer describes the PCC's 2007 report as "monumental". When Jay questions this, he accuses the QC of being "mean-spirited".
He says the police and newspapers – "God bless 'em" – uncovered more evidence of phone hacking than was known in 2006.He says the police and newspapers – "God bless 'em" – uncovered more evidence of phone hacking than was known in 2006.
10.56am: Meyer says the decision not to interview Andy Coulson, after he left the News of the World, "was exactly the right one to take … although presentationally it has made things difficult for me".10.56am: Meyer says the decision not to interview Andy Coulson, after he left the News of the World, "was exactly the right one to take … although presentationally it has made things difficult for me".
Meyer says the PCC had no powers to interview under oath, and in any case Coulson no longer worked for the paper.Meyer says the PCC had no powers to interview under oath, and in any case Coulson no longer worked for the paper.
He says it is "wholly improbable" that Coulson would have been able to tell the PCC more than Colin Myler "had been able to dig out of the system".He says it is "wholly improbable" that Coulson would have been able to tell the PCC more than Colin Myler "had been able to dig out of the system".
Coulson "would not have had anything of value to add to the reports that we published", says Meyer.Coulson "would not have had anything of value to add to the reports that we published", says Meyer.
10.52am: The PPC decided to conduct a "lessons-learned exercise" that would offer guidance and "shed a little more light" on what had gone on at the News of the World. "That's what we did and it was welcomed," Meyer adds.10.52am: The PPC decided to conduct a "lessons-learned exercise" that would offer guidance and "shed a little more light" on what had gone on at the News of the World. "That's what we did and it was welcomed," Meyer adds.
10.50am: Moving on to the PCC's 2007 inquiry, Meyer says: "I was certainly confident that the inquiry we carried out in 2007 … was fully within the articles of association."10.50am: Moving on to the PCC's 2007 inquiry, Meyer says: "I was certainly confident that the inquiry we carried out in 2007 … was fully within the articles of association."
Meyer says he was "strongly" of the view that it would not be useful for the PCC to "duplicate" the police inquiry. "At the time … it seemed pretty draconian," he says of the imprisonment of Clive Goodman and Glenn Mulcaire.Meyer says he was "strongly" of the view that it would not be useful for the PCC to "duplicate" the police inquiry. "At the time … it seemed pretty draconian," he says of the imprisonment of Clive Goodman and Glenn Mulcaire.
10.49am: Meyer says that when the police looked into phone hacking of the royal family in August 2006 it was not appropriate for the PCC to launch its own "parallel" inquiry.10.49am: Meyer says that when the police looked into phone hacking of the royal family in August 2006 it was not appropriate for the PCC to launch its own "parallel" inquiry.
He adds that the PCC could make statements but no more.He adds that the PCC could make statements but no more.
10.46am: Meyer is asked about his proposals for future press regulation.10.46am: Meyer is asked about his proposals for future press regulation.
He says that in six appearances on Question Time he never got any questions about the press – and he expected some hostility. Leveson interjects to say that: "Maybe they didn't know what it [the PCC] was."He says that in six appearances on Question Time he never got any questions about the press – and he expected some hostility. Leveson interjects to say that: "Maybe they didn't know what it [the PCC] was."
Only the Advertising Standards Authority was better known than the PCC, Meyer says.Only the Advertising Standards Authority was better known than the PCC, Meyer says.
10.45am: Media Standards trust senior editor Gavin Freeguard has just tweeted:10.45am: Media Standards trust senior editor Gavin Freeguard has just tweeted:
Our Ipsos MORI poll, Jan 10: 61% 'v appropriate', 25% 'fairly appropriate' to fine papers in serious cases p46 http://bit.ly/qlCvaw #LevesonOur Ipsos MORI poll, Jan 10: 61% 'v appropriate', 25% 'fairly appropriate' to fine papers in serious cases p46 http://bit.ly/qlCvaw #Leveson
10.42am: As an example that newspapers take notice of adjudications, Meyer says that the Guardian threatened to leave the PCC in 2003 after the body ruled against the newspaper paying a prisoner for a book serialisation.10.42am: As an example that newspapers take notice of adjudications, Meyer says that the Guardian threatened to leave the PCC in 2003 after the body ruled against the newspaper paying a prisoner for a book serialisation.
10.41am: Editors did not like having to admit in their own newspapers that they had "screwed up", Meyer tells the inquiry.10.41am: Editors did not like having to admit in their own newspapers that they had "screwed up", Meyer tells the inquiry.
10.39am: Jay suggests that the public want the PCC to have more teeth, but Meyer does not agree.10.39am: Jay suggests that the public want the PCC to have more teeth, but Meyer does not agree.
He says that his view is backed up by polls of the public in which they said they would prefer a "fast free and fair" system to getting bogged down.He says that his view is backed up by polls of the public in which they said they would prefer a "fast free and fair" system to getting bogged down.
Leveson suggests that this was not a very fair poll question.Leveson suggests that this was not a very fair poll question.
10.35am: Meyer admits he was "going out on a limb" in the speech when he said he was firmly opposed to fines for newspapers.10.35am: Meyer admits he was "going out on a limb" in the speech when he said he was firmly opposed to fines for newspapers.
He says he is still opposed to the PCC having the ability to fine – in contrast to what the serving director of the PCC, Stephen Abell, told the inquiry yesterday.He says he is still opposed to the PCC having the ability to fine – in contrast to what the serving director of the PCC, Stephen Abell, told the inquiry yesterday.
Meyer said in his speech that editors fear the blemish of having a negative PCC adjudication on their career.Meyer said in his speech that editors fear the blemish of having a negative PCC adjudication on their career.
10.32am: Meyer denies the claim that he was "out on a limb" when he said in the 2003 speech that the PCC was functioning well.10.32am: Meyer denies the claim that he was "out on a limb" when he said in the 2003 speech that the PCC was functioning well.
"I had some quite significant changes to make," he says of the PCC. Meyer says he wanted the changes to face as little political resistance as possible."I had some quite significant changes to make," he says of the PCC. Meyer says he wanted the changes to face as little political resistance as possible.
10.31am: Meyer says in the six years of his chairmanship he agonised over what the PCC's regulation should be called.10.31am: Meyer says in the six years of his chairmanship he agonised over what the PCC's regulation should be called.
"Self-regulation" did not capture it, he says, because it was the "lay majority" of the commission that sat in judgment of journalism – not journalists."Self-regulation" did not capture it, he says, because it was the "lay majority" of the commission that sat in judgment of journalism – not journalists.
10.27am: Meyer is asked about his speech in 2003 on the "permanent evolution" of the press. He had been chairman of the PCC for just a matter of weeks.10.27am: Meyer is asked about his speech in 2003 on the "permanent evolution" of the press. He had been chairman of the PCC for just a matter of weeks.
"Mr Jay, I do not believe in hanging around," he says."Mr Jay, I do not believe in hanging around," he says.
10.24am: Meyer says he felt "the tremor in the land" when the Labour government enacted legislation to attempt to deal with terrorism.10.24am: Meyer says he felt "the tremor in the land" when the Labour government enacted legislation to attempt to deal with terrorism.
"On the matter of the press of course it has to be regulated …. I'm not saying it should be free to roar around," he says, adding: "Actually today the press is quite closely hemmed in … by statute and by the code of practice.""On the matter of the press of course it has to be regulated …. I'm not saying it should be free to roar around," he says, adding: "Actually today the press is quite closely hemmed in … by statute and by the code of practice."
10.17am: Once you allow the state into the area of press regulation, you are "standing on the top of a slippery slope", Meyer tells Leveson.10.17am: Once you allow the state into the area of press regulation, you are "standing on the top of a slippery slope", Meyer tells Leveson.
He says that politics change and a "less permissive, less liberal state" might try take advantage of existing legislation "to do things which might be offensive to freedom of expression".He says that politics change and a "less permissive, less liberal state" might try take advantage of existing legislation "to do things which might be offensive to freedom of expression".
10.15am: Meyer says he is "very firmly of the view that you do not go down the road of statute".10.15am: Meyer says he is "very firmly of the view that you do not go down the road of statute".
10.14am: Meyer describes the PCC as a "public service" for the "99%" of complainants who are not celebrities.10.14am: Meyer describes the PCC as a "public service" for the "99%" of complainants who are not celebrities.
The strongest shot for an editor was a "negative adjudication published prominently", Meyer says.The strongest shot for an editor was a "negative adjudication published prominently", Meyer says.
He adds that the ultimate sanction would have been to write a letter to an editor, but that situation never arose under his chairmanship.He adds that the ultimate sanction would have been to write a letter to an editor, but that situation never arose under his chairmanship.
10.12am: Meyer says he believes "very firmly" that the PCC is a regulator – "it is regulation unlike anything else".10.12am: Meyer says he believes "very firmly" that the PCC is a regulator – "it is regulation unlike anything else".
"As you develop a jurisprudence to the application of the code of practice, judgments and rulings, you are actually telling journalists what they can do and what they can't do. In my book, that is a form of regulation," Meyer says."As you develop a jurisprudence to the application of the code of practice, judgments and rulings, you are actually telling journalists what they can do and what they can't do. In my book, that is a form of regulation," Meyer says.
"Fair enough," quips Jay."Fair enough," quips Jay.
10.11am: Meyer was interviewed by the Press Standards Board of Finance (Pressbof) for the role of PCC chairman in 2003, he says.10.11am: Meyer was interviewed by the Press Standards Board of Finance (Pressbof) for the role of PCC chairman in 2003, he says.
He adds that he is a "strong believer of freedom of the press … even though I had been wrestling with journalists" in his previous incarnation as a UK ambassador.He adds that he is a "strong believer of freedom of the press … even though I had been wrestling with journalists" in his previous incarnation as a UK ambassador.
10.06am: Sir Christopher Meyer is the first witness of the day. He was chairman of the PCC from 2003 to 2009.10.06am: Sir Christopher Meyer is the first witness of the day. He was chairman of the PCC from 2003 to 2009.
Meyer is being questioned by Robert Jay QC, counsel to the inquiry.Meyer is being questioned by Robert Jay QC, counsel to the inquiry.
9.47am: Good morning and welcome to the Leveson inquiry live blog.9.47am: Good morning and welcome to the Leveson inquiry live blog.
The inquiry continues with its turn of senior Press Complaints Commission (PCC) figures, hearing evidence from veteran media executive Lord Grade, former PCC chairman Sir Christopher Meyer, and the recently-installed PCC chairman, Lord Hunt.The inquiry continues with its turn of senior Press Complaints Commission (PCC) figures, hearing evidence from veteran media executive Lord Grade, former PCC chairman Sir Christopher Meyer, and the recently-installed PCC chairman, Lord Hunt.
Hunt was appointed new chairman of the PCC in October last year, following the departure of Baroness Buscombe. In only his second outing since taking the role, Hunt is likely to be pressed on his own proposals for a radical shakeup of press regulation.Hunt was appointed new chairman of the PCC in October last year, following the departure of Baroness Buscombe. In only his second outing since taking the role, Hunt is likely to be pressed on his own proposals for a radical shakeup of press regulation.
The inquiry will hear from Meyer, chairman of the PCC between 2003 and 2009 – spanning the period when the first signs of widespread illicit newsgathering methods were uncovered. Meyer is likely to be asked about his meetings with former information commissioner, Richard Thomas, who raised concerns about the use of private investigators by newspapers in 2003.The inquiry will hear from Meyer, chairman of the PCC between 2003 and 2009 – spanning the period when the first signs of widespread illicit newsgathering methods were uncovered. Meyer is likely to be asked about his meetings with former information commissioner, Richard Thomas, who raised concerns about the use of private investigators by newspapers in 2003.
Please note that comments are switched off for legal reasons.Please note that comments are switched off for legal reasons.