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Leveson inquiry: Lord Black, Ed Richards, Colette Bowe - live Leveson inquiry: Lord Black, Ed Richards, Colette Bowe - live
(40 minutes later)
3.46pm: We're back. Richards says he is "very very sceptical" about self regulation if the public interest is at odds with the commercial interest.
He adds: "ask yourself about the interests and incentives of the industry" and then ask yourself if self regulation will work.
He suggests that it won't, and favours "effective, independent and statutory regulation".
3.35pm: The inquiry is having a short break.
3.23pm: Richards says there has been discussion of the takeover with the culture secretary since it was abandoned.
The government appears to be considering Ofcom's proposal for a system of monitoring media ownership, he adds.
"There has been discussion about it. Our impression is the government is considering it. It certainly appears to understand the point we're making," Richards says.
Ofcom has often looked at media ownership in terms of what impact a merger would have on the public.
But Richards says there is now another issue:
"What influence in the political process might I have by virtue of the control of particular media assets. I think we will also look at that where in the past we have often looked at the former."
3.23pm: Patry Hoskins asks about Ofcom's role in media mergers and plurality.
Richards' statement says that the culture secretary, Jeremy Hunt, issued an intervention notice to Ofcom in respect of News Corporation's proposed takeover of BSkyB. The merger was abandoned at the height of the phone-hacking affair last year.
Ofcom concluded that the merger would have "significantly increased News Corp's ability to influence opinion", Patry Hoskins says.
Ofcom was asked to provide two specific reports into the takeover before News Corp eventually withdrew the bid.
Richards says that the process of the merger involved a "vigorous exchange" between Ofcom and News Corp. "It was not a benign exercise," he says.
3.13pm: Richards says that the power to investigate is an "extraordinarily" important part of Ofcom's remit.3.13pm: Richards says that the power to investigate is an "extraordinarily" important part of Ofcom's remit.
He describes it as a "critical tool" and says that it is difficult to conceive of Ofcom being able to do its job effectively if it could not investigate wrongdoing.He describes it as a "critical tool" and says that it is difficult to conceive of Ofcom being able to do its job effectively if it could not investigate wrongdoing.
3.11pm: Ben Fenton, the Financial Times media correspondent, has tweeted:3.11pm: Ben Fenton, the Financial Times media correspondent, has tweeted:
#leveson counsel Patry-Hoskins call premium-rate phoneline scandals "Ofcom's phone hacking". [Certainly felt like it at the time]#leveson counsel Patry-Hoskins call premium-rate phoneline scandals "Ofcom's phone hacking". [Certainly felt like it at the time]
— Ben Fenton (@benfenton) February 1, 2012— Ben Fenton (@benfenton) February 1, 2012
3.06pm: Richards says that Ofcom's investigatory powers meant that it could require witness statements and audit data from the broadcasters. The regulator then did a thorough inquiry into what had gone wrong.3.06pm: Richards says that Ofcom's investigatory powers meant that it could require witness statements and audit data from the broadcasters. The regulator then did a thorough inquiry into what had gone wrong.
"The outcome of that was this series of sanctions. Some were fairly modest, others were the highest fines we've levied in our history," Richards says."The outcome of that was this series of sanctions. Some were fairly modest, others were the highest fines we've levied in our history," Richards says.
He describes the sanctions as an "effective deterrant". The regulator then recast its relationship with broadcasters in relation to premium rate phone-in competitions, he says.He describes the sanctions as an "effective deterrant". The regulator then recast its relationship with broadcasters in relation to premium rate phone-in competitions, he says.
3.04pm: Richards and Bowe are asked about Ofcom's investigatory powers.3.04pm: Richards and Bowe are asked about Ofcom's investigatory powers.
Richards raises the TV phone-in scandal of 2007. He says that there was an "air of invisibility" about it but suddenly whistleblowers started exposing the practice to newspapers and Ofcom.Richards raises the TV phone-in scandal of 2007. He says that there was an "air of invisibility" about it but suddenly whistleblowers started exposing the practice to newspapers and Ofcom.
2.46pm: Patry Hoskins says that Ofcom published 171 fairness and privacy adjudications in 2010/11. Nine were found to be breaches; 36 were not breaches; 13 were resolved, and 113 were not considered.2.46pm: Patry Hoskins says that Ofcom published 171 fairness and privacy adjudications in 2010/11. Nine were found to be breaches; 36 were not breaches; 13 were resolved, and 113 were not considered.
2.37pm: Patry Hoskins, counsel to the inquiry, says that in 2011 Ofcom had 25,000 complaints, 9,031 published decisions, 168 breached code and 36 resolved – 8,827 were found not to be in breach.2.37pm: Patry Hoskins, counsel to the inquiry, says that in 2011 Ofcom had 25,000 complaints, 9,031 published decisions, 168 breached code and 36 resolved – 8,827 were found not to be in breach.
Richards recalls that one complaint was about the cartoon Tom & Jerry. The complainant told Ofcom that Tom had set fire to Jerry. "That was relatively easy to dispatch," he says.Richards recalls that one complaint was about the cartoon Tom & Jerry. The complainant told Ofcom that Tom had set fire to Jerry. "That was relatively easy to dispatch," he says.
2.29pm: If you affect the bottom line that always focuses the mind of news operations, Richards says.2.29pm: If you affect the bottom line that always focuses the mind of news operations, Richards says.
More importantly it tends to have "far more significant reputational consequences", he adds.More importantly it tends to have "far more significant reputational consequences", he adds.
Ben Fenton, the Financial Times media correspondent, has just tweeted:Ben Fenton, the Financial Times media correspondent, has just tweeted:
Ed Richards says the broadcasting of corrections with due prominence is "non-negotiable" #leveson expresses interest.Ed Richards says the broadcasting of corrections with due prominence is "non-negotiable" #leveson expresses interest.
— Ben Fenton (@benfenton) February 1, 2012— Ben Fenton (@benfenton) February 1, 2012
2.25pm: Bowe suggests that the inquiry read the Channel 4 newscaster Jon Snow's recent Cudlipp lecture in which he challenges the notion that statutory regulation has a harmful impact on good journalism.2.25pm: Bowe suggests that the inquiry read the Channel 4 newscaster Jon Snow's recent Cudlipp lecture in which he challenges the notion that statutory regulation has a harmful impact on good journalism.
Richards adds that he disputes the idea that "robust investigative journalism" is impacted by statutory regulation.Richards adds that he disputes the idea that "robust investigative journalism" is impacted by statutory regulation.
The Hacked Off campaign has tweeted:The Hacked Off campaign has tweeted:
Richards: It's clear that people in the press are able to take more risks but investigative journalism not inconsistent with Ofcom. #LevesonRichards: It's clear that people in the press are able to take more risks but investigative journalism not inconsistent with Ofcom. #Leveson
— Hacked off (@hackinginquiry) February 1, 2012— Hacked off (@hackinginquiry) February 1, 2012
2.20pm: Richards is asked to what extent Ofcom's ability to fine has a "chilling effect" on broadcasters.2.20pm: Richards is asked to what extent Ofcom's ability to fine has a "chilling effect" on broadcasters.
He says that "it focuses the mind, has a reputational impact, has an economic impact and is a very effective deterrant". However, he does not believe it has a chilling effect on legitimate investigative journalism.He says that "it focuses the mind, has a reputational impact, has an economic impact and is a very effective deterrant". However, he does not believe it has a chilling effect on legitimate investigative journalism.
"There is no reason why the presence of a financial penalty should have an impact on good, investigative journalism," Richards says."There is no reason why the presence of a financial penalty should have an impact on good, investigative journalism," Richards says.
2.17pm: Richards says there is an obligation for broadcasters to keep records of complaints and Ofcom is able to require material as evidence.2.17pm: Richards says there is an obligation for broadcasters to keep records of complaints and Ofcom is able to require material as evidence.
He is pressed on the complaints process. Richards says it is "extremely important" that making a complaint about a broadcaster to Ofcom is free at the point of access.He is pressed on the complaints process. Richards says it is "extremely important" that making a complaint about a broadcaster to Ofcom is free at the point of access.
2.06pm: Richards says Ofcom has to exercise its power "carefully and with due process" because of its ability to be challenged by judicial review.2.06pm: Richards says Ofcom has to exercise its power "carefully and with due process" because of its ability to be challenged by judicial review.
He adds that it is much more important "that there is respect for the decisions at the end of the process."He adds that it is much more important "that there is respect for the decisions at the end of the process."
2.02pm: The inquiry has resumed.2.02pm: The inquiry has resumed.
Richards suggests that the statutory role of Ofcom does not necessarily slow the regulator down when dealing with complaints.Richards suggests that the statutory role of Ofcom does not necessarily slow the regulator down when dealing with complaints.
Opponents of statutory regulation have argued that it would slow down the operation of a complaints-handling body.Opponents of statutory regulation have argued that it would slow down the operation of a complaints-handling body.
But Richards says Ofcom can deal with complaints "relatively swiftly".But Richards says Ofcom can deal with complaints "relatively swiftly".
1.02pm: The inquiry has broken for lunch. The Ofcom duo will return at 2pm.1.02pm: The inquiry has broken for lunch. The Ofcom duo will return at 2pm.
1.01pm: Still on "Sachsgate", Richards says it was important to send the signal that the behavious was "wholly unacceptable".1.01pm: Still on "Sachsgate", Richards says it was important to send the signal that the behavious was "wholly unacceptable".
1.00pm: Ofcom can intitiate investigation from external complaints in exceptional circumstances, Richards says; but the regulator will focus on complaints brought by first parties.1.00pm: Ofcom can intitiate investigation from external complaints in exceptional circumstances, Richards says; but the regulator will focus on complaints brought by first parties.
He says an Ofcom investigation would not arise simply following a media frenzy around an issue, such as the Russell Brand and Jonathan Ross "Sachsgate" affair.He says an Ofcom investigation would not arise simply following a media frenzy around an issue, such as the Russell Brand and Jonathan Ross "Sachsgate" affair.
"That was exactly not the reason we took that case forward," Richard says of Sachsgate. He describes it as a "very very series infringement" of Andrew Sachs' and Georgina Bailey's privacy. "It was a particularly egregious case," Richards says."That was exactly not the reason we took that case forward," Richard says of Sachsgate. He describes it as a "very very series infringement" of Andrew Sachs' and Georgina Bailey's privacy. "It was a particularly egregious case," Richards says.
Sachs and Bailey did not complain but Ofcom was presented with "an exceptional body of evidence," he adds.Sachs and Bailey did not complain but Ofcom was presented with "an exceptional body of evidence," he adds.
12.43pm: Richards says that broadcasters are allowed to attempt to people "in the news" and in a public place.12.43pm: Richards says that broadcasters are allowed to attempt to people "in the news" and in a public place.
There is a difference between that and the more "surprise form of doorstepping ... on someone's doorstep with a microphone at 7am", he adds.There is a difference between that and the more "surprise form of doorstepping ... on someone's doorstep with a microphone at 7am", he adds.
The Hacked Off campaign has tweeted:The Hacked Off campaign has tweeted:
Richards makes a distinction between doorstepping someone in news and "aggressive and surprising" intervention. #LevesonRichards makes a distinction between doorstepping someone in news and "aggressive and surprising" intervention. #Leveson
— Hacked off (@hackinginquiry) February 1, 2012— Hacked off (@hackinginquiry) February 1, 2012
12.40pm: Richards and Bowe are asked about rules on doorstepping for broadcast journalists.12.40pm: Richards and Bowe are asked about rules on doorstepping for broadcast journalists.
Richards says that a code on doorstepping was introduced some years ago after it became an emerging "phenomenon".Richards says that a code on doorstepping was introduced some years ago after it became an emerging "phenomenon".
He cannot recall mamy recent incidents of doorstepping by broadcast journalists. "The code here is very clear and, generally speaking, broadcasters and journalists understand it and adhere to it," he tells the inquiry.He cannot recall mamy recent incidents of doorstepping by broadcast journalists. "The code here is very clear and, generally speaking, broadcasters and journalists understand it and adhere to it," he tells the inquiry.
12.37pm: The Ofcom pair are asked what legitimate justifications could be made for a breach of privacy.12.37pm: The Ofcom pair are asked what legitimate justifications could be made for a breach of privacy.
Richards says there should be a "clear public interest" justification but "not many" more.Richards says there should be a "clear public interest" justification but "not many" more.
12.34pm: Bowe says that the broadcasting code is an attempt to get away from a "box-ticking compliance culture".12.34pm: Bowe says that the broadcasting code is an attempt to get away from a "box-ticking compliance culture".
Journalists and programme makers should be encouraged to think about what they are doing, Bowe says, not whether they have ticked a box.Journalists and programme makers should be encouraged to think about what they are doing, Bowe says, not whether they have ticked a box.
12.29pm: The broadcasting code is "not a massive or particularly complicated" set of terms for working journalists to understand, Richards tells the inquiry.12.29pm: The broadcasting code is "not a massive or particularly complicated" set of terms for working journalists to understand, Richards tells the inquiry.
Ofcom, which puts the code together, will review the code from time to time and go through its approval process and content board.Ofcom, which puts the code together, will review the code from time to time and go through its approval process and content board.
Richards says practicing programme makers and journalists are involved closely in the compilation of the code. It is not written by "half a dozen people hiding away in a room in Ofcom," he adds.Richards says practicing programme makers and journalists are involved closely in the compilation of the code. It is not written by "half a dozen people hiding away in a room in Ofcom," he adds.
The final decision on the code is that of Ofcom's content board.The final decision on the code is that of Ofcom's content board.
12.18pm: Richards says revoking a license is not something Ofcom likes doing.12.18pm: Richards says revoking a license is not something Ofcom likes doing.
The regulator feels a sense of "failure" if it has to revoke a licence because it means that the broadcaster has fallen through several of its boundaries.The regulator feels a sense of "failure" if it has to revoke a licence because it means that the broadcaster has fallen through several of its boundaries.
He is asked about Bang media, the broadcaster the ended up having its license revoked. Richards says that Band media made 48 breaches in 2009.He is asked about Bang media, the broadcaster the ended up having its license revoked. Richards says that Band media made 48 breaches in 2009.
12.14pm: Richards is asked whether Richard Desmond could be described as "fit and proper" in the context of his withdrawal from the system of self-regulation for the press.12.14pm: Richards is asked whether Richard Desmond could be described as "fit and proper" in the context of his withdrawal from the system of self-regulation for the press.
There is a general catch-all which permits some discretion, he says, but adds: "I wouldn't want to say things of that kind could never be considered ... but it wouldn't necessarily be our primary focus.There is a general catch-all which permits some discretion, he says, but adds: "I wouldn't want to say things of that kind could never be considered ... but it wouldn't necessarily be our primary focus.
12.08pm: We're back and the Ofcom pair are asked about its role in licensing TV stations.12.08pm: We're back and the Ofcom pair are asked about its role in licensing TV stations.
Richards says that the "intrusive" nature of TV stations as a medium means that there should be "a guard" to protect standards.Richards says that the "intrusive" nature of TV stations as a medium means that there should be "a guard" to protect standards.
There is no precise definition of what "fit and proper" means for a broadcaster, but a "series of questions" will be asked about the people who apply for the license.There is no precise definition of what "fit and proper" means for a broadcaster, but a "series of questions" will be asked about the people who apply for the license.
12.01pm: The inquiry has taken a short break.12.01pm: The inquiry has taken a short break.
11.49am: Ofcom is a "post-broadcast regulator" and does not attempt to intervene with broadcasts before they are aired, Richard says.11.49am: Ofcom is a "post-broadcast regulator" and does not attempt to intervene with broadcasts before they are aired, Richard says.
He is asked whether Ofcom should be able to intervene pre-broadcast.He is asked whether Ofcom should be able to intervene pre-broadcast.
"You are then into a very difficult territory which takes you potentially takes you into the area of censorship and suppression," he says. "I would feel extraordinarily uncomfortable discharging a duty of that kind.""You are then into a very difficult territory which takes you potentially takes you into the area of censorship and suppression," he says. "I would feel extraordinarily uncomfortable discharging a duty of that kind."
11.47am: Richards says that the role of Ofcom is to carry out the "least intrusive, least burdensome" way of achieving its public interest objectives.11.47am: Richards says that the role of Ofcom is to carry out the "least intrusive, least burdensome" way of achieving its public interest objectives.
He adds that it is not a "light touch" regulation, which is "not a phrase which helps very much".He adds that it is not a "light touch" regulation, which is "not a phrase which helps very much".
11.43am: Ofcom determines high-quality broadcasting by measuring factors including the level of original British programming, Richards says.11.43am: Ofcom determines high-quality broadcasting by measuring factors including the level of original British programming, Richards says.
Bowe adds that the regulator will carry out research into Britons' interests and what 'high quality' means to them.Bowe adds that the regulator will carry out research into Britons' interests and what 'high quality' means to them.
11.34am: Bowe says that people who are active in the industry will not be heavily involved in Ofcom because of "conflicts".11.34am: Bowe says that people who are active in the industry will not be heavily involved in Ofcom because of "conflicts".
She says that the Ofcom board are all well-informed individuals though they are no longer active in the industry.She says that the Ofcom board are all well-informed individuals though they are no longer active in the industry.
11.34am: Bowe is asked whether the independence of Ofcom would be greater if the chief executive was not ultimately selected by the culture secretary.11.34am: Bowe is asked whether the independence of Ofcom would be greater if the chief executive was not ultimately selected by the culture secretary.
Bowe says: "In practical terms the answer is no."Bowe says: "In practical terms the answer is no."
A better model has never been proposed, she adds, and a "well-informed" parliamentary committee serves to hold the regulator to account for its decisions.A better model has never been proposed, she adds, and a "well-informed" parliamentary committee serves to hold the regulator to account for its decisions.
11.28am: Bowe says that the board of Ofcom is the ultimate decision-making body of the regulator.11.28am: Bowe says that the board of Ofcom is the ultimate decision-making body of the regulator.
Richards says that the importance of independence of Ofcom "is difficult to overstate".Richards says that the importance of independence of Ofcom "is difficult to overstate".
"It is probably the most prized characteristic of the entire organisation," he says. "In many ways, it matters more than anything else to every single employee.""It is probably the most prized characteristic of the entire organisation," he says. "In many ways, it matters more than anything else to every single employee."
11.26am: Bowe says she was grilled for several hours before finally being appointed chairman of Ofcom.11.26am: Bowe says she was grilled for several hours before finally being appointed chairman of Ofcom.
She emphasises that Ofcom is accountable to parliament. However, Bowe says that independence of her role is buttressed through European legislation.She emphasises that Ofcom is accountable to parliament. However, Bowe says that independence of her role is buttressed through European legislation.
11.20am: Carine Patry Hoskins, counsel to the inquiry, is leading questions to the Ofcom pair.11.20am: Carine Patry Hoskins, counsel to the inquiry, is leading questions to the Ofcom pair.
Patry Hoskins asks about the statutory underpinning of Ofcom, which broadly regulates all UK media except newspapers and advertising.Patry Hoskins asks about the statutory underpinning of Ofcom, which broadly regulates all UK media except newspapers and advertising.
As chairman of Ofcom, Bowe is appointed by the government's culture secretary. The chief executive of Ofcom is appointed by the Ofcom and other non-executive members with the approval of the culture secretary.As chairman of Ofcom, Bowe is appointed by the government's culture secretary. The chief executive of Ofcom is appointed by the Ofcom and other non-executive members with the approval of the culture secretary.
11.14am: Ed Richards, chief executive of Ofcom, and Colette Bowe, chairman of Ofcom, have taken the stand.11.14am: Ed Richards, chief executive of Ofcom, and Colette Bowe, chairman of Ofcom, have taken the stand.
11.10am: More on Glenn Mulcaire's failed appeal at the high court.11.10am: More on Glenn Mulcaire's failed appeal at the high court.
The full judgment is here [PDF]. Our media correspondent, Lisa O'Carroll, has this story:The full judgment is here [PDF]. Our media correspondent, Lisa O'Carroll, has this story:
Glenn Mulcaire, the private investigator at the centre of the phone-hacking scandal, has lost his appeal against an earlier high court ruling requiring him to reveal who at the News of the World instructed him to hack into Steve Coogan's voicemails.Glenn Mulcaire, the private investigator at the centre of the phone-hacking scandal, has lost his appeal against an earlier high court ruling requiring him to reveal who at the News of the World instructed him to hack into Steve Coogan's voicemails.
The court of appeal ruled on Wednesday that Mulcaire was not entitled to section 72 privilege against self-incrimination and must reveal who at the now-defunct News International title had instructed him to hack phones, who he had passed the information he received on to, and who he had replayed recordings of the messages to.The court of appeal ruled on Wednesday that Mulcaire was not entitled to section 72 privilege against self-incrimination and must reveal who at the now-defunct News International title had instructed him to hack phones, who he had passed the information he received on to, and who he had replayed recordings of the messages to.
However, the court granted a stay on the enforcement order pending a potential supreme court appeal.However, the court granted a stay on the enforcement order pending a potential supreme court appeal.
Mulcaire was given until 5pm on Monday to appeal, which his solicitor said he intended to do.Mulcaire was given until 5pm on Monday to appeal, which his solicitor said he intended to do.
11.08am: Lord Black has completed his evidence and the inquiry is having a short break.11.08am: Lord Black has completed his evidence and the inquiry is having a short break.
11.07am: Lord Justice Leveson says that "time is of the essence" and that his inquiry will carry on. He adds that the language of the proposed contract of the new body should be clarified as quickly as possible.11.07am: Lord Justice Leveson says that "time is of the essence" and that his inquiry will carry on. He adds that the language of the proposed contract of the new body should be clarified as quickly as possible.
Lord Black replies: "Message received and understood".Lord Black replies: "Message received and understood".
11.02am: Lord Black says that a new standards and compliance body could look at the results of a police investigation and make proposals for the future.11.02am: Lord Black says that a new standards and compliance body could look at the results of a police investigation and make proposals for the future.
He adds that it would be "difficult" for the new body to conduct an inquiry while a police investigation was ongoing.He adds that it would be "difficult" for the new body to conduct an inquiry while a police investigation was ongoing.
10.58am: Publishers who resist the new self-regulatory body should be told there "could be something far worse for them", Lord Black says.10.58am: Publishers who resist the new self-regulatory body should be told there "could be something far worse for them", Lord Black says.
He advocates a contractual model with terms that publishers could sign up to.He advocates a contractual model with terms that publishers could sign up to.
He says he has not yet spoke to Richard Desmond, owner of Northern & Shell, about the reforms, but adds that Express and Star editors "have been supportive of the process to date".He says he has not yet spoke to Richard Desmond, owner of Northern & Shell, about the reforms, but adds that Express and Star editors "have been supportive of the process to date".
10.54am: The appetite for change from the industry is a "very real one", Lord Black tells the inquiry.10.54am: The appetite for change from the industry is a "very real one", Lord Black tells the inquiry.
He says that the industry needs to made "radical proposals" for a change to self regulation to stave off the threat of statutory regulation.He says that the industry needs to made "radical proposals" for a change to self regulation to stave off the threat of statutory regulation.
"If there isn't change to the regulatory regime ... that the threat of statute is there. So there is a combination of both of those," Lord Black says."If there isn't change to the regulatory regime ... that the threat of statute is there. So there is a combination of both of those," Lord Black says.
10.50am: Lord Black says there should be a preponderance of serving editors on the reformed self-regulatory committee.10.50am: Lord Black says there should be a preponderance of serving editors on the reformed self-regulatory committee.
Lord Hunt's proposals – outlined yesterday – have the support of the industry as a whole, he says.Lord Hunt's proposals – outlined yesterday – have the support of the industry as a whole, he says.
Lord Black says he was "surprised by some of the strength" of support for Lord Hunt's proposals, which he adds are "potentially painful" for the regional press.Lord Black says he was "surprised by some of the strength" of support for Lord Hunt's proposals, which he adds are "potentially painful" for the regional press.
Lord Justice Leveson says he will not sit back and consider himself redundant, reiterating that he wants a "system that works for everyone".Lord Justice Leveson says he will not sit back and consider himself redundant, reiterating that he wants a "system that works for everyone".
10.45am: Lord Black is asked about a "preponderance" of Conservative peers on Pressbof and the PCC.10.45am: Lord Black is asked about a "preponderance" of Conservative peers on Pressbof and the PCC.
He does not accept that Tory peers exert a suprerior influence on the bodies, adding that the appointment of Lord Hunt, a Tory peer, was not a political one.He does not accept that Tory peers exert a suprerior influence on the bodies, adding that the appointment of Lord Hunt, a Tory peer, was not a political one.
10.43am: Pressbof exerts no control over the PCC, Lord Black says, other than promulgating its code and managing its funding.10.43am: Pressbof exerts no control over the PCC, Lord Black says, other than promulgating its code and managing its funding.
"While there is a perception in some quarters that some form of control exists, that does not exist," he says."While there is a perception in some quarters that some form of control exists, that does not exist," he says.
10.41am: Lord Justice Leveson asks if Pressbof is looking for a PCC chairman to reform the industry or a chairman who is "first and foremost" an advocate of self-regulation.10.41am: Lord Justice Leveson asks if Pressbof is looking for a PCC chairman to reform the industry or a chairman who is "first and foremost" an advocate of self-regulation.
Lord Black says that a belief in self-regulation was an important "starting point" for a new PCC chairman.Lord Black says that a belief in self-regulation was an important "starting point" for a new PCC chairman.
He describes Lord Hunt as "open minded" and points out that his proposals represent a "very dramatic shift" for the industry.He describes Lord Hunt as "open minded" and points out that his proposals represent a "very dramatic shift" for the industry.
10.36am: Lord Black tells the inquiry that the PCC chairman, Lord Hunt, was selected by Pressbof from a longlist of 40 to 45 people and a shortlist of six people last year.10.36am: Lord Black tells the inquiry that the PCC chairman, Lord Hunt, was selected by Pressbof from a longlist of 40 to 45 people and a shortlist of six people last year.
Jay asks to what extent the process was "geared towards" a candidate in favour of self-regulation.Jay asks to what extent the process was "geared towards" a candidate in favour of self-regulation.
Lord Black says a belief in freedom of the press and self-regulation were "fundamental" specifications. "It would be impossible for someone to do the job if they started from a position of hostility [to those principles]," Black says.Lord Black says a belief in freedom of the press and self-regulation were "fundamental" specifications. "It would be impossible for someone to do the job if they started from a position of hostility [to those principles]," Black says.
10.33am: Here is more from Press Association on Glenn Mulcaire's failed appeal on privilege against self-incrimination:10.33am: Here is more from Press Association on Glenn Mulcaire's failed appeal on privilege against self-incrimination:
The private investigator at the centre of the phone-hacking scandal today lost his appeal against orders that he cannot rely on privilege against self-incrimination in the proceedings.The private investigator at the centre of the phone-hacking scandal today lost his appeal against orders that he cannot rely on privilege against self-incrimination in the proceedings.
Glenn Mulcaire, who was jailed for six months in January 2007 for illegally accessing the voicemails of members of the royal household, challenged rulings that he did not have the right to refuse to say who asked him to intercept voice messages.Glenn Mulcaire, who was jailed for six months in January 2007 for illegally accessing the voicemails of members of the royal household, challenged rulings that he did not have the right to refuse to say who asked him to intercept voice messages.
The orders were made in response to applications made by comedian and actor Steve Coogan and PR consultant Nicola Phillips in the run-up to their civil damages claims for breach of confidence against both News Group Newspapers (NGN) and Mulcaire, whom NGN had exclusively retained.The orders were made in response to applications made by comedian and actor Steve Coogan and PR consultant Nicola Phillips in the run-up to their civil damages claims for breach of confidence against both News Group Newspapers (NGN) and Mulcaire, whom NGN had exclusively retained.
Three judges in the Court of Appeal, headed by the Lord Chief Justice, Lord Judge, refused Mulcaire permission to appeal their ruling, but granted a stay until 5pm on Monday pending an application for permission to the Supreme Court itself.Three judges in the Court of Appeal, headed by the Lord Chief Justice, Lord Judge, refused Mulcaire permission to appeal their ruling, but granted a stay until 5pm on Monday pending an application for permission to the Supreme Court itself.
10.29am: Lord Black says he has always been opposed to the imposition of fines.10.29am: Lord Black says he has always been opposed to the imposition of fines.
"I don't think they would have done much in the past to strengthen the PCC," he tells Leveson. He adds that it would have made it "less quick" and there has been no evidence that complainants want the PCC to have the power to fines."I don't think they would have done much in the past to strengthen the PCC," he tells Leveson. He adds that it would have made it "less quick" and there has been no evidence that complainants want the PCC to have the power to fines.
Lord Black says that he is now in favour of fines, following the phone-hacking affair and Lord Hunt's proposals for a new PCC.Lord Black says that he is now in favour of fines, following the phone-hacking affair and Lord Hunt's proposals for a new PCC.
"I certainly now believe that some form of fining system would be appropriate," he tells Leveson. "It's that [phone hacking] that has led me to a change of view ... That is the most obvious example of why urgent reform of the system is needed.""I certainly now believe that some form of fining system would be appropriate," he tells Leveson. "It's that [phone hacking] that has led me to a change of view ... That is the most obvious example of why urgent reform of the system is needed."
10.26am: National newspapers' cooperation with Pressbof had been "universal" until 2008 when Northern & Shell withdrew from the system, Black says.10.26am: National newspapers' cooperation with Pressbof had been "universal" until 2008 when Northern & Shell withdrew from the system, Black says.
Black says he has never met an editor or proprietor "who would ever dream" of taking Private Eye to the PCC, after Leveson raises evidence given by Ian Hislop, editor of the satirical magazine, earlier this month.Black says he has never met an editor or proprietor "who would ever dream" of taking Private Eye to the PCC, after Leveson raises evidence given by Ian Hislop, editor of the satirical magazine, earlier this month.
10.22am: Asked whether the PCC is a regulator, Black says: "I would never use that word. I have never believed the PCC to be a regulator."10.22am: Asked whether the PCC is a regulator, Black says: "I would never use that word. I have never believed the PCC to be a regulator."
10.19am: Jay asks about the Pressbof's chairman report from 2009.10.19am: Jay asks about the Pressbof's chairman report from 2009.
It describes the PCC as an "efficient and accessible regulator". Jay says that the general reflection is "supportive of the status quo". Lord Justice Leveson describes it as "rather self-congratulatory".It describes the PCC as an "efficient and accessible regulator". Jay says that the general reflection is "supportive of the status quo". Lord Justice Leveson describes it as "rather self-congratulatory".
Lord Black contests that there has been "marked improvements" in press standards over the years.Lord Black contests that there has been "marked improvements" in press standards over the years.
He adds that in light of recent events self-regulation "is not a perfect mechanism and the industry fully recognises that".He adds that in light of recent events self-regulation "is not a perfect mechanism and the industry fully recognises that".
10.16am: Robert Jay, counsel to the inquiry, says that Schillings solicitors made suggestions on prior notification to avoid code breaches.10.16am: Robert Jay, counsel to the inquiry, says that Schillings solicitors made suggestions on prior notification to avoid code breaches.
Paul Dacre, as chairman of the code committee, said the changes were difficult to codify, the inquiry hears.Paul Dacre, as chairman of the code committee, said the changes were difficult to codify, the inquiry hears.
10.15am: Private investigator Glenn Mulcaire has lost his High Court appeal against orders that he cannot rely on privilege against self-incrimination in the phone-hacking proceedings.10.15am: Private investigator Glenn Mulcaire has lost his High Court appeal against orders that he cannot rely on privilege against self-incrimination in the phone-hacking proceedings.
Our media correspondent, Lisa O'Carroll (@lisaocarroll), is at the high court and we will point you to her story when we have it.Our media correspondent, Lisa O'Carroll (@lisaocarroll), is at the high court and we will point you to her story when we have it.
10.08am: Lord Black is asked how Pressbof obtains fees.10.08am: Lord Black is asked how Pressbof obtains fees.
He says that national newspapers pay 54%, regionals pay 34% and magazines 7% of the overall fees.He says that national newspapers pay 54%, regionals pay 34% and magazines 7% of the overall fees.
It is not known which titles pay more, Lord Black says, but those with a bigger circulation will fund a proportionate amount.It is not known which titles pay more, Lord Black says, but those with a bigger circulation will fund a proportionate amount.
10.03am: Lord Black, chairman of the Press Standards Board of Finance (Pressbof), has taken the stand.10.03am: Lord Black, chairman of the Press Standards Board of Finance (Pressbof), has taken the stand.
10.02am: Mark White, the Sky News reporter, has tweeted that representatives of the private investigators industry and mobile networks will give evidence to the inquiry tomorrow.10.02am: Mark White, the Sky News reporter, has tweeted that representatives of the private investigators industry and mobile networks will give evidence to the inquiry tomorrow.
Witness list for tomorrow at #Leveson published. It's includes representatives of the Private Investigations industry plus O2 and VodafoneWitness list for tomorrow at #Leveson published. It's includes representatives of the Private Investigations industry plus O2 and Vodafone
9.54am: Good morning and welcome to the Leveson inquiry live blog.9.54am: Good morning and welcome to the Leveson inquiry live blog.
Today the inquiry will hear from Lord Black of Brentwood, chairman of the Press Standards Board of Finance (Pressbof), the body responsible for funding the Press Complaints Commission (PCC).Today the inquiry will hear from Lord Black of Brentwood, chairman of the Press Standards Board of Finance (Pressbof), the body responsible for funding the Press Complaints Commission (PCC).
Lord Black, a former director of the PCC, is likely to be asked about the circumstances of Richard Desmond-owned Northern & Shell's departure from the PCC – and how to stop publishers from so easily leaving the system of self-regulation. Lord Black is currently executive director of Telegraph Media Group, publisher of the Telegraph titles.Lord Black, a former director of the PCC, is likely to be asked about the circumstances of Richard Desmond-owned Northern & Shell's departure from the PCC – and how to stop publishers from so easily leaving the system of self-regulation. Lord Black is currently executive director of Telegraph Media Group, publisher of the Telegraph titles.
Ed Richards, chief executive of the broadcast and telecoms regulator, Ofcom, will give evidence alongside Colette Bowe, chairman of Ofcom.Ed Richards, chief executive of the broadcast and telecoms regulator, Ofcom, will give evidence alongside Colette Bowe, chairman of Ofcom.
Guy Parker, chief executive of the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA), will also appear.Guy Parker, chief executive of the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA), will also appear.
Follow the inquiry live from 10am.Follow the inquiry live from 10am.
Please note that comments have been switched off for legal reasons.Please note that comments have been switched off for legal reasons.