This article is from the source 'guardian' and was first published or seen on . It last changed over 40 days ago and won't be checked again for changes.

You can find the current article at its original source at http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2012/feb/06/leveson-inquiry-sue-akers-paul-dacre-live

The article has changed 13 times. There is an RSS feed of changes available.

Version 6 Version 7
Leveson inquiry: Sue Akers, Paul Dacre, Dan Wootton - live Leveson inquiry: Sue Akers, Paul Dacre, Dan Wootton - live
(40 minutes later)
2.35pm: Dacre says it a "canard" that he imposes his personal will on the Daily Mail.
He says he does not impose a "world view" on the newspaper and its standpoint is "vigorously debated" by the paper's top writers.
Dacre says its top writers would leave if he attempted to tell them what to write.
"Do you think I tell Max Hastings, Janet Street Porter, Craig Brown and others what to write?" he adds,
Dacre says some of the views expressed on the paper's Irish edition "make my hair go white" but he does not attempt to interfere.
He adds that the paper aims to reflect readers' "anxieties" rather than their prejudices.
2.32pm: Dacre is asked what he meant by saying that the inquiry's assessors did not understand how mass-market newspapers operated.
He says the assessors seem to come from a "narrow" background, with little experience of mainstream newspapers.
2.30pm: Dacre is the longest-serving editor on Fleet Street and chairman of the PCC editors' code of conduct committee. He has been editor of the Daily Mail since 1992 and editor-in-chief of Associated Newspapers since 1998.
2.27pm: Paul Dacre, editor-in-chief of the Daily Mail, has taken the stand.
2.22pm: The inquiry has now resumed.
Jemima Khan and Hugh Grant have submitted supplementary witness statements were submitted late on Friday and Saturday. Robert Jay, counsel to the inquiry, says it is "disappointing" that the evidence was submitted so late.
Lord Justice Leveson says he does not want the inquiry diverted into a dispute between witnesses and core participants.
2.20pm: Our colleague Lisa O'Carroll has just tweeted that the video link is down and the inquiry can't proceed without it.
2.18pm: Ben Fenton, the FT's media correspondent, wins the 'boom boom' moment of today's inquiry. He has just tweeted:
[This could be Calcutta Cup tactics -Scotland kept England waiting on Saturday night. Of course, this is more Calcutt Cup tactics. #leveson]
— Ben Fenton (@benfenton) February 6, 2012
2.03pm: Our colleague David Leigh's story on the IPCC investigation into News of the World payments in the Milly Dowler case is now live. He writes:
Two suspicious payments by News of the World journalists during the Milly Dowler case are under police investigation, the police anti-corruption watchdog has revealed.
The Independent Police Complaints Commission [IPCC] said they were supervising the ongoing investigation, which resulted from paperwork handed over by the newspaper, but no evidence had surfaced so far to link the payments to corrupt officers.
The IPCC disclosure came in the course of a report published on Monday, which dismissed claims that a detective constable from Surrey police had sold information to journalists in 2002, including the missing teenager's mobile phone number. The report said the information, which came from a former Surrey police officer calling himself "Andy" , was unsubstantiated "supposition and rumour".
But the report added: "Officers from Operation Elveden, the investigation by the Metropolitan Police Service into allegations of corrupt payments by journalists to police officers, informed Surrey police they had documentation from the News of the World indicating that two payments had been made by journalists in 2002 in connection with Milly Dowler."
You can read the full story here.
1.54pm: Our correspondent at the Royal Courts of Justice, Lisa O'Carroll, has just tweeted that Daily Mail editor Paul Dacre has not yet arrived before his turn in the stand.1.54pm: Our correspondent at the Royal Courts of Justice, Lisa O'Carroll, has just tweeted that Daily Mail editor Paul Dacre has not yet arrived before his turn in the stand.
#leveson Paul dacre has not yet arrived but air of anticipation in court 73#leveson Paul dacre has not yet arrived but air of anticipation in court 73
— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) February 6, 2012— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) February 6, 2012
1.51pm: The investigative journalist, Tom Bower, has been on Sky News ahead of Paul Dacre's evidence to the Leveson inquiry.1.51pm: The investigative journalist, Tom Bower, has been on Sky News ahead of Paul Dacre's evidence to the Leveson inquiry.
Bower described Dacre as "one of the great" newspaper editors and "the last hope to save this ridiculous inquiry from going off into the wilderness".Bower described Dacre as "one of the great" newspaper editors and "the last hope to save this ridiculous inquiry from going off into the wilderness".
He is no fan of Lord Justice Leveson. "I think Leveson has failed as an operation to find out what has gone on," Bower said. "Leveson personally doesn't understand the press. I don't think a judge is the right person [to conduct this inquiry] in the first place."He is no fan of Lord Justice Leveson. "I think Leveson has failed as an operation to find out what has gone on," Bower said. "Leveson personally doesn't understand the press. I don't think a judge is the right person [to conduct this inquiry] in the first place."
He added: "The problems are minor. There was one terrible error but not worthwhile of this massive apparatus. The News of the World went off in a particular way – that is regrettable – but they had a different way of operating to the Daily Mail."He added: "The problems are minor. There was one terrible error but not worthwhile of this massive apparatus. The News of the World went off in a particular way – that is regrettable – but they had a different way of operating to the Daily Mail."
1.07pm: Here is Sue Akers's witness statment:1.07pm: Here is Sue Akers's witness statment:
12.58pm: Here is a lunchtime summary of today's evidence so far:12.58pm: Here is a lunchtime summary of today's evidence so far:
• The Scotland Yard team investigating payment to police by journalists has been expanded following arrests at the Sun.• The Scotland Yard team investigating payment to police by journalists has been expanded following arrests at the Sun.
• News of the World journalists arrested under Operation Elveden were "relatively senior", DAC Sue Akers told the inquiry.• News of the World journalists arrested under Operation Elveden were "relatively senior", DAC Sue Akers told the inquiry.
• The Former News of the World showbiz editor, Dan Wootton, said "need to protect exclusives" was justification for not pre-notifying subject of stories in some instances.• The Former News of the World showbiz editor, Dan Wootton, said "need to protect exclusives" was justification for not pre-notifying subject of stories in some instances.
• A Sunday Mirror journalist, Nick Owens, denied he encouraged undercover film-maker Chris Atkins to disclose celebrities' confidential medical records.• A Sunday Mirror journalist, Nick Owens, denied he encouraged undercover film-maker Chris Atkins to disclose celebrities' confidential medical records.
• The Independent Police Complaints Commission has found no evidence to suggest that a Surrey police officer disclosed Milly Dowler's phone number to the News of the World.• The Independent Police Complaints Commission has found no evidence to suggest that a Surrey police officer disclosed Milly Dowler's phone number to the News of the World.
12.52pm: The inquiry has now broken for lunch. It will resume at 2pm for evidence from Paul Dacre, editor-in-chief of the Daily Mail.12.52pm: The inquiry has now broken for lunch. It will resume at 2pm for evidence from Paul Dacre, editor-in-chief of the Daily Mail.
12.51pm: Owens has completed his evidence.12.51pm: Owens has completed his evidence.
12.50pm: Owens is asked about the reaction of the Sunday Mirror editor, Tina Weaver, when told about the conversation.12.50pm: Owens is asked about the reaction of the Sunday Mirror editor, Tina Weaver, when told about the conversation.
Weaver thought Owens had acted unwisely and made "some clumsy comments", he says.Weaver thought Owens had acted unwisely and made "some clumsy comments", he says.
12.45pm: Here is Chris Atkins's record of his converation with Owens, as it appears in his witness statement:12.45pm: Here is Chris Atkins's record of his converation with Owens, as it appears in his witness statement:
I then gave him several fabricated operations of real celebrities:I then gave him several fabricated operations of real celebrities:
CA: Well - one of Girls AloudCA: Well - one of Girls Aloud
NO: One of?NO: One of?
CA: One of - boobjob, consultationCA: One of - boobjob, consultation
NO: Oh really - OK - that's goodNO: Oh really - OK - that's good
CA: Mr Hugh Grant - had a bit of a face tuck - that's happened a while agoCA: Mr Hugh Grant - had a bit of a face tuck - that's happened a while ago
NO: Face tuck?NO: Face tuck?
CA: YeahCA: Yeah
NO: That's OKNO: That's OK
CA: Rhys Ifans - tummyCA: Rhys Ifans - tummy
NO: Oh really - Rhys? Tummy tuckNO: Oh really - Rhys? Tummy tuck
CA: Yeah, again don't know how long that wasCA: Yeah, again don't know how long that was
NO: He's not going back for more?NO: He's not going back for more?
CA: I don't know - I don't knowCA: I don't know - I don't know
NO: OKNO: OK
CA: I don 't even know what this is - but Guy Ritchie apparently - chemical peelCA: I don 't even know what this is - but Guy Ritchie apparently - chemical peel
CA: This is the one which is literally quite recent is Gemma Arterton... a gastricCA: This is the one which is literally quite recent is Gemma Arterton... a gastric
NO: That's surprising isn't it?NO: That's surprising isn't it?
NO: Girls Aloud is potential... very very good story. Depends who it is. If it's Cheryl then it is massive - with Cheryl you can expect a big pay, that makes it less dodgy for your source. It's almost worth the wait, till she had it done... Have they had it done or it is just a consultation?NO: Girls Aloud is potential... very very good story. Depends who it is. If it's Cheryl then it is massive - with Cheryl you can expect a big pay, that makes it less dodgy for your source. It's almost worth the wait, till she had it done... Have they had it done or it is just a consultation?
CA: No - consultation.CA: No - consultation.
NO: Are we talking about CherylNO: Are we talking about Cheryl
CA: No

NO: Not a problem -		CA: No

NO: Not a problem -
CA: NicolaCA: Nicola
NO: Nicola - that is still a good story. That is the best one ... And Gemma - the other three are like maybes.NO: Nicola - that is still a good story. That is the best one ... And Gemma - the other three are like maybes.
NO: I think Rhys is funny - cos, you know Rhys Ifans wanting a tummy tuck is a very funny story - but then again - is it justified in the public interest? That's the problem. We could get away with Gemma - that's massive, good story that ... because as you see she does not need one. You have got to ask yourself why? Why is she bothering? That age as well. So that's all great.NO: I think Rhys is funny - cos, you know Rhys Ifans wanting a tummy tuck is a very funny story - but then again - is it justified in the public interest? That's the problem. We could get away with Gemma - that's massive, good story that ... because as you see she does not need one. You have got to ask yourself why? Why is she bothering? That age as well. So that's all great.
CA: What sort of figure, this would never be ... but so I've got a ball park -CA: What sort of figure, this would never be ... but so I've got a ball park -
NO: Think you are looking to get over three grand minimum - that is a start. How it works is right, page lead in the paper is a grand - but the further it gets to the front of the paper - the more it is. Get a spread - well you won't get a spread out of this as it's one fact. That is the problem - unless you get some kind of... Fern made a spread cos of the issues surrounding her. This one is "Nicola's got a boob job" it is a one fact story ... there's no getting around it ... As a journalist you write that story up, there's almost a point where you put a full stop and you've finished the story. Then you have to write round it.NO: Think you are looking to get over three grand minimum - that is a start. How it works is right, page lead in the paper is a grand - but the further it gets to the front of the paper - the more it is. Get a spread - well you won't get a spread out of this as it's one fact. That is the problem - unless you get some kind of... Fern made a spread cos of the issues surrounding her. This one is "Nicola's got a boob job" it is a one fact story ... there's no getting around it ... As a journalist you write that story up, there's almost a point where you put a full stop and you've finished the story. Then you have to write round it.
CA: Just rehash old stuff?CA: Just rehash old stuff?
NO: Yeah you have to.NO: Yeah you have to.
NO: [About Rhys Ifans] having a tummy tuck to get rid of his beer belly isn't it? It's a fucking good story that - but out of all of them you could do Rhys - if you wanted to do one you could probably do Rhys Sunday.

NO: If it's a boob job then that goes without saying - if you say to me that she [Nicola] has had a boob job in May - and we know about it and then we put pictures on her very early on - and we would be the first paper to fucking run that story - do the before and after pictures. Because what you do with boob job stories is "has she or hasn't she had a boob job?" And we know she has, which means I can write it quite strong. With Gemma Arterton it is slightly more tricky cos it's a consultation for a gastric band and obviously it goes without saying you can't see it. Cos then we do have to go to her - with her we might need some documents, we need to know when it happened.		NO: [About Rhys Ifans] having a tummy tuck to get rid of his beer belly isn't it? It's a fucking good story that - but out of all of them you could do Rhys - if you wanted to do one you could probably do Rhys Sunday.

NO: If it's a boob job then that goes without saying - if you say to me that she [Nicola] has had a boob job in May - and we know about it and then we put pictures on her very early on - and we would be the first paper to fucking run that story - do the before and after pictures. Because what you do with boob job stories is "has she or hasn't she had a boob job?" And we know she has, which means I can write it quite strong. With Gemma Arterton it is slightly more tricky cos it's a consultation for a gastric band and obviously it goes without saying you can't see it. Cos then we do have to go to her - with her we might need some documents, we need to know when it happened.
NO: [about Rhys Ifans] Having a tummy tuck to get rid of his beer belly isn't it? It's a fucking good story that - but out of all of them you could do Rhys - if you wanted to do one you could probably do Rhys Sunday, but we're not gonna do that. But looking at it, Rhys you could probably get away with because it's so funny. The other two you have got to wait - Gemma and Nicola you have got to wait -NO: [about Rhys Ifans] Having a tummy tuck to get rid of his beer belly isn't it? It's a fucking good story that - but out of all of them you could do Rhys - if you wanted to do one you could probably do Rhys Sunday, but we're not gonna do that. But looking at it, Rhys you could probably get away with because it's so funny. The other two you have got to wait - Gemma and Nicola you have got to wait -
CA: Yes but which ones would she need toCA: Yes but which ones would she need to
NO: I don't think we would need anything more on Nicola because it would be there - in plain view for all to seeNO: I don't think we would need anything more on Nicola because it would be there - in plain view for all to see
CA: But what if ... we don't want to be in a situation where they deny it- and they come back to us and say I need something tomorrow, or it's dead, do you know what I mean?CA: But what if ... we don't want to be in a situation where they deny it- and they come back to us and say I need something tomorrow, or it's dead, do you know what I mean?
NO: Yes the thing is - with that she'll need - in my opinion is that with an operation like that - it is quite a big operation - they will normally need a couple of weeks off - so it will come when there's a gap in their thing - we'll be able to work it out- no one has seen them for a few weeks - where has she been? I think we will be fine on that - I mean I think we will be all right - and obviously fit looks like she has got bigger tits we can easily say she has had a boob job and we will be all right. Gemma Arterton we'll need if possible some documentation. The thing to say to your friend is "what can you get?" Because the more the better really. If she can't get anything then fine.NO: Yes the thing is - with that she'll need - in my opinion is that with an operation like that - it is quite a big operation - they will normally need a couple of weeks off - so it will come when there's a gap in their thing - we'll be able to work it out- no one has seen them for a few weeks - where has she been? I think we will be fine on that - I mean I think we will be all right - and obviously fit looks like she has got bigger tits we can easily say she has had a boob job and we will be all right. Gemma Arterton we'll need if possible some documentation. The thing to say to your friend is "what can you get?" Because the more the better really. If she can't get anything then fine.
CA: She is an administrative nurse, that's the thing, so she probably canCA: She is an administrative nurse, that's the thing, so she probably can
NO: If she can, yeah get a document on everything.NO: If she can, yeah get a document on everything.
12.44pm: Owens says that by the end of his conversation he had come to the view that he would not act on the information.12.44pm: Owens says that by the end of his conversation he had come to the view that he would not act on the information.
The meeting was not mentioned afterwards to the news desk, he says.The meeting was not mentioned afterwards to the news desk, he says.
12.43pm: The witness statement of Sue Akers has now been published on the Leveson inquiry website.12.43pm: The witness statement of Sue Akers has now been published on the Leveson inquiry website.
12.42pm: Owens says that newspapers do often investigate claims and that was his aim in meeting Atkins.12.42pm: Owens says that newspapers do often investigate claims and that was his aim in meeting Atkins.
He suggests that he kept open the possibility of exposing Atkins after the undercover film-maker claimed to be able to get his friend drunk to obtain information about celebrities.He suggests that he kept open the possibility of exposing Atkins after the undercover film-maker claimed to be able to get his friend drunk to obtain information about celebrities.
"I went away thinking that there was potential to expose what he was doing," he tells the inquiry."I went away thinking that there was potential to expose what he was doing," he tells the inquiry.
Barr suggests that Owens was "positively encouraging" Atkins to get his friend drunk.Barr suggests that Owens was "positively encouraging" Atkins to get his friend drunk.
Owens denies he was doing this and "alarm bells began to ring" that Atkins himself may be worth investigating.Owens denies he was doing this and "alarm bells began to ring" that Atkins himself may be worth investigating.
12.33pm: Barr claims that Owens told Atkins that he was "keen to keep talking" about potential stories involving celebrities and cosmetic surgery.12.33pm: Barr claims that Owens told Atkins that he was "keen to keep talking" about potential stories involving celebrities and cosmetic surgery.
Owens says: "I didn't believe it was dynamite information. I was there to find out what the information was."Owens says: "I didn't believe it was dynamite information. I was there to find out what the information was."
12.24pm: Barr continues to press Owens on what he meant by certain exchanges in the transcript of the recording. He asks about Atkins's suggestions that he could obtain information about a member of Girls Aloud, Hugh Grant, Rhys Ifans and Guy Ritchie12.24pm: Barr continues to press Owens on what he meant by certain exchanges in the transcript of the recording. He asks about Atkins's suggestions that he could obtain information about a member of Girls Aloud, Hugh Grant, Rhys Ifans and Guy Ritchie
Barr suggests that Owens had come to conclusions about the value of certain stories to be obtained from Atkins.Barr suggests that Owens had come to conclusions about the value of certain stories to be obtained from Atkins.
Owens denies he had reached final conclusions and says he was going along with Atkins just to "keep his interest".Owens denies he had reached final conclusions and says he was going along with Atkins just to "keep his interest".
12.20pm: The Independent Police Complaints Commission has said there is no evidence that a Surrey police officer gave Milly Dowler's telephone number to the News of the World.12.20pm: The Independent Police Complaints Commission has said there is no evidence that a Surrey police officer gave Milly Dowler's telephone number to the News of the World.
In a statement, the IPCC said:In a statement, the IPCC said:
The Independent Police Complaints Commission has concluded that there is no evidence to support allegations that a Surrey police officer subject to an IPCC investigation, gave information to journalists during Operation Ruby, the investigation into the disappearance of Amanda (Milly) Dowler in 2002.The Independent Police Complaints Commission has concluded that there is no evidence to support allegations that a Surrey police officer subject to an IPCC investigation, gave information to journalists during Operation Ruby, the investigation into the disappearance of Amanda (Milly) Dowler in 2002.
The matter was referred to the IPCC by Surrey police in August 2011 after they received information from three newspaper journalists that they were going to publish the allegations.The matter was referred to the IPCC by Surrey police in August 2011 after they received information from three newspaper journalists that they were going to publish the allegations.
IPCC commissioner Mike Franklin said:IPCC commissioner Mike Franklin said:
"The allegations that a Surrey police officer provided information to journalists during Operation Ruby, and may have been paid for doing so, can only have added to the terrible loss endured by Milly Dowler's family. Surrey police, quite rightly, came under a great deal of scrutiny over this issue - the allegations are serious and required independent examination."The allegations that a Surrey police officer provided information to journalists during Operation Ruby, and may have been paid for doing so, can only have added to the terrible loss endured by Milly Dowler's family. Surrey police, quite rightly, came under a great deal of scrutiny over this issue - the allegations are serious and required independent examination.
"I hope our finding that there was no substantive or factual evidence to support the allegations will provide some reassurance to the Dowler family on this issue at least."I hope our finding that there was no substantive or factual evidence to support the allegations will provide some reassurance to the Dowler family on this issue at least.
"It appears from this investigation that unsubstantiated information, perhaps not surprisingly, quickly gained currency in a climate where the relationships between the police and the media are under intense public scrutiny."It appears from this investigation that unsubstantiated information, perhaps not surprisingly, quickly gained currency in a climate where the relationships between the police and the media are under intense public scrutiny.
"A police officer was criminally interviewed and remained under suspicion for some months, as our investigators sought to establish the facts,. We have provided Surrey police with our report and indicated we see no need for further action."A police officer was criminally interviewed and remained under suspicion for some months, as our investigators sought to establish the facts,. We have provided Surrey police with our report and indicated we see no need for further action.
"The terms of this investigation were specific to these allegations and this officer.""The terms of this investigation were specific to these allegations and this officer."
The Dowler family has seen the IPCC report into the specific officer. They are conscious of the fact that other investigations not involving the IPCC are ongoing and have no further comment to make.The Dowler family has seen the IPCC report into the specific officer. They are conscious of the fact that other investigations not involving the IPCC are ongoing and have no further comment to make.
12.19pm: Owens denies he was coordinating a strategy to publish stories based on the claimed medical records.12.19pm: Owens denies he was coordinating a strategy to publish stories based on the claimed medical records.
He says that "nothing happened" after the meeting, proving that there was no "strategy".He says that "nothing happened" after the meeting, proving that there was no "strategy".
12.16pm: Barr suggests that the transcript suggests Owens had a "wish list" of what cosmetic surgery pocedures he wanted information on, and that gastric bands were the best story.12.16pm: Barr suggests that the transcript suggests Owens had a "wish list" of what cosmetic surgery pocedures he wanted information on, and that gastric bands were the best story.
Owens denies this.Owens denies this.
12.13pm: Barr says it is "self-evident" that Owens told Atkins that the Sunday Mirror would be interested in the stories even if it could not obtain confidential medical records to back up the claims.12.13pm: Barr says it is "self-evident" that Owens told Atkins that the Sunday Mirror would be interested in the stories even if it could not obtain confidential medical records to back up the claims.
Owens again contests this, saying he wanted to establish what hard evidence might be available if asked by his newsdesk.Owens again contests this, saying he wanted to establish what hard evidence might be available if asked by his newsdesk.
Barr suggests that the phrase in the transcript "just ask her what she can get hold of" were active encouragement to obtain documents from a source.Barr suggests that the phrase in the transcript "just ask her what she can get hold of" were active encouragement to obtain documents from a source.
Owens denies this.Owens denies this.
12.06pm: Owens says that the conversation is "not reflective" of the Sunday Mirror because he was having an informal one-to-one conversation.12.06pm: Owens says that the conversation is "not reflective" of the Sunday Mirror because he was having an informal one-to-one conversation.
Pressed on the exchanges about Fern Britton, Owens tells the inquiry he is being candid and was simply attempting to establish what information Atkins was claiming to be able to obtain.Pressed on the exchanges about Fern Britton, Owens tells the inquiry he is being candid and was simply attempting to establish what information Atkins was claiming to be able to obtain.
This would have helped Owens explain to his news desk what evidence might be available, he says.This would have helped Owens explain to his news desk what evidence might be available, he says.
12.03pm: For Chris Atkins's version of events, you can read his witness statement on the Leveson inquiry website.12.03pm: For Chris Atkins's version of events, you can read his witness statement on the Leveson inquiry website.
11.59am: Owens is asked whether it was "ethically appropriate" to meet Atkins in this context.11.59am: Owens is asked whether it was "ethically appropriate" to meet Atkins in this context.
Owens says it was because he was just listening what Atkins had to say. "The key is what you do," he adds, pointing out again that no story was published by the Sunday Mirror based on this information.Owens says it was because he was just listening what Atkins had to say. "The key is what you do," he adds, pointing out again that no story was published by the Sunday Mirror based on this information.
11.56am: Owens says he made it clear to Atkins that there need to be a strong public interest justification if it was to run a story about Fern Britton having a gastric band operation.11.56am: Owens says he made it clear to Atkins that there need to be a strong public interest justification if it was to run a story about Fern Britton having a gastric band operation.
He points out that this was "an informal" meeting and the information discussed "did not lead to any information being published".He points out that this was "an informal" meeting and the information discussed "did not lead to any information being published".
11.52am: Owens felt that Atkins had some information that would be interesting to hear, and cannot remember what was going through his mind at the time of the 2009 conversation.11.52am: Owens felt that Atkins had some information that would be interesting to hear, and cannot remember what was going through his mind at the time of the 2009 conversation.
According to the transcript as read by Barr, Owens said "great" when Atkins said that he knew someone who could get private information on celebrities.According to the transcript as read by Barr, Owens said "great" when Atkins said that he knew someone who could get private information on celebrities.
"I certainly wasn't delighted to hear that," he says. "I couldn't tell you why I said that word three years ago.""I certainly wasn't delighted to hear that," he says. "I couldn't tell you why I said that word three years ago."
11.48am: Owens is asked about Chris Atkins's Starsuckers film.11.48am: Owens is asked about Chris Atkins's Starsuckers film.
Barr reads aloud parts of the transcript of the undercover recording. Owens says that he made clear early in the conversation that they were discussing a "very sensitive" issue, namely medical records of celebrities.Barr reads aloud parts of the transcript of the undercover recording. Owens says that he made clear early in the conversation that they were discussing a "very sensitive" issue, namely medical records of celebrities.
Owens says that as a journalist "we have a duty to engage with people and hear them out" and that is what he was doing.Owens says that as a journalist "we have a duty to engage with people and hear them out" and that is what he was doing.
11.43am: Owens says that the Sunday Mirror has a lawyer in the office at all times, unlike at the Lancashire Evening Post.11.43am: Owens says that the Sunday Mirror has a lawyer in the office at all times, unlike at the Lancashire Evening Post.
Lord Justice Leveson asks about his undercover report into a Bernard Matthews turkey factory.Lord Justice Leveson asks about his undercover report into a Bernard Matthews turkey factory.
Owens says the newspaper found it justified to go undercover as an employee to investigate the factory.Owens says the newspaper found it justified to go undercover as an employee to investigate the factory.
11.40am: Leveson asks Owens what "protective measures" are taken before any undercover investigation by Owens.11.40am: Leveson asks Owens what "protective measures" are taken before any undercover investigation by Owens.
He says news editors would be involved at all stages. Owens talks about an undercover report into traffic wardens while he was at the Lancashire Evening Post.He says news editors would be involved at all stages. Owens talks about an undercover report into traffic wardens while he was at the Lancashire Evening Post.
Readers of the paper had expressed concerns about wardens and so "probably the only way" to investigate the potential story.Readers of the paper had expressed concerns about wardens and so "probably the only way" to investigate the potential story.
He says that being "economical with the truth" was justified because of the level of concern expressed from readers.He says that being "economical with the truth" was justified because of the level of concern expressed from readers.
11.37am: Owens says that he deals with stories on a case-by-case basis.11.37am: Owens says that he deals with stories on a case-by-case basis.
Asked about Chris Atkins, the filmmaker behind the Starsuckers undercover sting, Owens confirms he only told his newsdesk he was going to meet someone – not who he was meeting.Asked about Chris Atkins, the filmmaker behind the Starsuckers undercover sting, Owens confirms he only told his newsdesk he was going to meet someone – not who he was meeting.
11.32am: Owens says that in March 2009 he was very familiar with the PCC code.11.32am: Owens says that in March 2009 he was very familiar with the PCC code.
This is the time when Owens was filmed apparently suggesting the Sunday Mirror would pay for celebrities' medical information.This is the time when Owens was filmed apparently suggesting the Sunday Mirror would pay for celebrities' medical information.
11.31am: David Barr, counsel to the inquiry, is leading the questioning of Owens.11.31am: David Barr, counsel to the inquiry, is leading the questioning of Owens.
Owens joined the Sunday Mirror in 2006 from the Lancashire Evening Post.Owens joined the Sunday Mirror in 2006 from the Lancashire Evening Post.
11.29am: The inquiry has resumed and Sunday Mirror reporter Nick Owens has taken the stand.11.29am: The inquiry has resumed and Sunday Mirror reporter Nick Owens has taken the stand.
Owens was covertly filmed for the Starsuckers film suggesting he would pay for private information about celebrities. Owens later apologised for his remarks.Owens was covertly filmed for the Starsuckers film suggesting he would pay for private information about celebrities. Owens later apologised for his remarks.
The Sunday Mirror editor, Tina Weaver, defended Owens when she gave evidence to the inquiry last month.The Sunday Mirror editor, Tina Weaver, defended Owens when she gave evidence to the inquiry last month.
"He realised it wasn't in the public interest at some stage and didn't even report his meeting to the news desk," she said. "I would like to say that this story would never have been published ... Apart from this incident, he's a very good and honest reporter.""He realised it wasn't in the public interest at some stage and didn't even report his meeting to the news desk," she said. "I would like to say that this story would never have been published ... Apart from this incident, he's a very good and honest reporter."
11.20am: Wootton has completed his evidence and the inquiry is taking a short break.11.20am: Wootton has completed his evidence and the inquiry is taking a short break.
11.19am: Lord Justice Leveson asks Wootton about newspapers in his native New Zealand.11.19am: Lord Justice Leveson asks Wootton about newspapers in his native New Zealand.
Wootton says that there is a self-regulatory body that is not made up of serving editors. Newspapers in New Zealand are compelled to publish findings of the regulator in full if they are found against, he says.Wootton says that there is a self-regulatory body that is not made up of serving editors. Newspapers in New Zealand are compelled to publish findings of the regulator in full if they are found against, he says.
11.15am: Wootton is now working for the Daily Mail, a magazine and a TV programme.11.15am: Wootton is now working for the Daily Mail, a magazine and a TV programme.
He is asked about Hugh Grant and stories last year about the birth of his daughter.He is asked about Hugh Grant and stories last year about the birth of his daughter.
"I was very concerned and disappointed when I heard one aspect of Hugh Grant's evidence," he says."I was very concerned and disappointed when I heard one aspect of Hugh Grant's evidence," he says.
He suggests that Grant's publicists in the US have a policy of not speaking to British tabloids and describes this as "frustrating" when a journalist is attempting to give right of reply. "I definitely think there needs to be a two-way street."He suggests that Grant's publicists in the US have a policy of not speaking to British tabloids and describes this as "frustrating" when a journalist is attempting to give right of reply. "I definitely think there needs to be a two-way street."
11.11am: Wootton says he would not write about Hugh Grant, for example, because "he didn't seem to enjoy being a celebrity".11.11am: Wootton says he would not write about Hugh Grant, for example, because "he didn't seem to enjoy being a celebrity".
He says it is "naive" to say you can be a Hollywood celebrity and bemoan the press attention that comes with the role.He says it is "naive" to say you can be a Hollywood celebrity and bemoan the press attention that comes with the role.
"All celebrities have a right to privacy," Wootton says, adding that in particular areas – sexuality, health issues, children – this is sacrosanct."All celebrities have a right to privacy," Wootton says, adding that in particular areas – sexuality, health issues, children – this is sacrosanct.
11.08am: Wootton is asked about the public interest.11.08am: Wootton is asked about the public interest.
He gives the example of one celebrity who was employed by a supermarket brand and had spoken publicly about her family life amid allegations of drug abuse. He suggests this was in the public interest because it showed hypocrisy.He gives the example of one celebrity who was employed by a supermarket brand and had spoken publicly about her family life amid allegations of drug abuse. He suggests this was in the public interest because it showed hypocrisy.
He contrasts this with another celebrity who had not spoken about their private life so the NoW could not mount a public interest defence on grounds of hypocrisy.He contrasts this with another celebrity who had not spoken about their private life so the NoW could not mount a public interest defence on grounds of hypocrisy.
"It could go both ways," he tells the inquiry."It could go both ways," he tells the inquiry.
11.02am: There were no complaints made to the PCC about Wootton's stories in the final three years of his time at the News of the World, he says.11.02am: There were no complaints made to the PCC about Wootton's stories in the final three years of his time at the News of the World, he says.
Wootton was named showbiz reporter of the year at the British Press Awards in 2010. One of the pieces that won him the prize was on the death of Boyzone member, Stephen Gately.Wootton was named showbiz reporter of the year at the British Press Awards in 2010. One of the pieces that won him the prize was on the death of Boyzone member, Stephen Gately.
11.00am: Wootton says that he was once bylined on a story that he had not worked on at all.11.00am: Wootton says that he was once bylined on a story that he had not worked on at all.
He points out that his showbiz column, headed with his name, ran 52 weeks a year – and he did not work all year.He points out that his showbiz column, headed with his name, ran 52 weeks a year – and he did not work all year.
"There are certain accepted tabloid conventions," he says."There are certain accepted tabloid conventions," he says.
10.58am: Wootton says that he would sometimes inquire about the source of information from freelance contributors.10.58am: Wootton says that he would sometimes inquire about the source of information from freelance contributors.
He believes he would sometimes take a more cautious approach than other journalists at the NoW.He believes he would sometimes take a more cautious approach than other journalists at the NoW.
10.56am: Wootton tells the inquiry that "there is a need to protect exclusives" and on a small number of occasions there would be a "commercial decision" not to pre-notify on a showbiz story because of a fear of leaks.10.56am: Wootton tells the inquiry that "there is a need to protect exclusives" and on a small number of occasions there would be a "commercial decision" not to pre-notify on a showbiz story because of a fear of leaks.
He says that right of reply would only not be given if the editor was 100% confident of the facts of the article; it was more likely to happen on positive stories.He says that right of reply would only not be given if the editor was 100% confident of the facts of the article; it was more likely to happen on positive stories.
It was Wootton's policy to give right of reply on 99% of his stories, he says.It was Wootton's policy to give right of reply on 99% of his stories, he says.
10.52am: Wootton says there was "probably" times when his opinion was overruled as to whether the NoW would run a story.10.52am: Wootton says there was "probably" times when his opinion was overruled as to whether the NoW would run a story.
He recalls one occasion when a senior executive at the paper had been told that a celebrity was going to take a certain job.He recalls one occasion when a senior executive at the paper had been told that a celebrity was going to take a certain job.
Wootton says his gut feeling was that the story should be checked, but the executive did not and requested that Wootton also did not check the story.Wootton says his gut feeling was that the story should be checked, but the executive did not and requested that Wootton also did not check the story.
10.50am: Wootton says the job of showbiz editor is "definitely walking a tightrope" by being fair to celebrities and not becoming a stooge.10.50am: Wootton says the job of showbiz editor is "definitely walking a tightrope" by being fair to celebrities and not becoming a stooge.
"Because the News of the World was coming from a position of weakness, it was felt that that was particularly important," he says."Because the News of the World was coming from a position of weakness, it was felt that that was particularly important," he says.
10.47am: Jay asks whether Wootton felt he was "colluding" with celebrities to put stories with a certain angle out.10.47am: Jay asks whether Wootton felt he was "colluding" with celebrities to put stories with a certain angle out.
Wootton denies this. "I was always conscious not to become a stooge to celebrities," he says. His stories were built on trust that the celebrities would be treated fairly.Wootton denies this. "I was always conscious not to become a stooge to celebrities," he says. His stories were built on trust that the celebrities would be treated fairly.
"One of my jobs was to make sure celebrities felt confident to give interviews and stories to the News of the World," he says, adding that the paper had to work on rebuilding trust in 2007, following the convictions of Goodman and Mulcaire."One of my jobs was to make sure celebrities felt confident to give interviews and stories to the News of the World," he says, adding that the paper had to work on rebuilding trust in 2007, following the convictions of Goodman and Mulcaire.
10.45am: Wootton says that there was a fear that "secret squirrel" stories could be leaked. He says these were one-fact stories, such as celebrity A had split from celebrity B. They were kept within a small group of about five people.10.45am: Wootton says that there was a fear that "secret squirrel" stories could be leaked. He says these were one-fact stories, such as celebrity A had split from celebrity B. They were kept within a small group of about five people.
"The News of the World was particularly conscious that stories could be leaked, because they had in the past," he says."The News of the World was particularly conscious that stories could be leaked, because they had in the past," he says.
Wootton says that none of his stories were obtained by subterfuge and about half came from celebrities themselves.Wootton says that none of his stories were obtained by subterfuge and about half came from celebrities themselves.
10.45am: Wootton denies there was a bullying culture at the News of the World.10.45am: Wootton denies there was a bullying culture at the News of the World.
He adds that individual desks in the newsroom "very much ran as separate entities".He adds that individual desks in the newsroom "very much ran as separate entities".
Wootton operated on the features desk and would have "very very minimal" contact with the news desk, he says.Wootton operated on the features desk and would have "very very minimal" contact with the news desk, he says.
Wootton spoke to the head of news about twice in his four years at the paper, he says.Wootton spoke to the head of news about twice in his four years at the paper, he says.
10.44am: Wootton says that he joined on a day when the News of the World was holding its first regular PCC seminar. He was given a pocket-sized PCC guidebook which he carried "at all times".10.44am: Wootton says that he joined on a day when the News of the World was holding its first regular PCC seminar. He was given a pocket-sized PCC guidebook which he carried "at all times".
He says that every story – including "the most trivial" – would be read by at least four people in the newsroom before publication.He says that every story – including "the most trivial" – would be read by at least four people in the newsroom before publication.
Wootton says he felt the News of the World was in competition with its sister title, the Sun.Wootton says he felt the News of the World was in competition with its sister title, the Sun.
10.40am: Wootton says that he was assured following the conviction of News of the World royal correspondent Clive Goodman in early 2007 that that was an "individual incident".10.40am: Wootton says that he was assured following the conviction of News of the World royal correspondent Clive Goodman in early 2007 that that was an "individual incident".
"When I started it was made absolutely clear that that behaviour would not be tolerated in any way by [then editor] Colin Myler," he tells the inquiry."When I started it was made absolutely clear that that behaviour would not be tolerated in any way by [then editor] Colin Myler," he tells the inquiry.
10.37am: Wootton joined the News of the World in 2007 and was at the paper until its closure in July last year.10.37am: Wootton joined the News of the World in 2007 and was at the paper until its closure in July last year.
There is an interview with Wootton shortly after the paper's closure on the BBC website.There is an interview with Wootton shortly after the paper's closure on the BBC website.
10.34am: Dan Wootton, the former News of the World showbiz editor, has taken the stand.10.34am: Dan Wootton, the former News of the World showbiz editor, has taken the stand.
10.33am: Akers has completed her evidence.10.33am: Akers has completed her evidence.
10.33am: Akers is asked about Operation Kalmyk. It is a scoping exercise that arose from Operation Tuleta evidence of at least one person being involved in illegally accessing computers for financial gain.10.33am: Akers is asked about Operation Kalmyk. It is a scoping exercise that arose from Operation Tuleta evidence of at least one person being involved in illegally accessing computers for financial gain.
Operation Kalmyk was the subject of a recent BBC Panorama programme, Akers confirms.Operation Kalmyk was the subject of a recent BBC Panorama programme, Akers confirms.
One person has been arrested under Operation Kalmyk and are on bail until March.One person has been arrested under Operation Kalmyk and are on bail until March.
Leveson says "my train isn't stopping" in terms of pushing ahead with his inquiry.Leveson says "my train isn't stopping" in terms of pushing ahead with his inquiry.
10.31am: Akers says that the Met is examining 4 terabytes – a vast amount – of information under Operation Tuleta.10.31am: Akers says that the Met is examining 4 terabytes – a vast amount – of information under Operation Tuleta.
She describes it as a "huge amount, vast" when asked what it would look like if printed out.She describes it as a "huge amount, vast" when asked what it would look like if printed out.
10.29am: Jay asks about Operation Tuleta.10.29am: Jay asks about Operation Tuleta.
Akers says that about 20 police officers are looking into 57 claims of "data intrusion" on behalf of journalists.Akers says that about 20 police officers are looking into 57 claims of "data intrusion" on behalf of journalists.
Most of these claims relate to computer hacking, medical records and phone hacking.Most of these claims relate to computer hacking, medical records and phone hacking.
Some of these claims go back to as long ago as the late 1980s, Akers says. "Some of these are connected to very historic investigations that the Met has undertaken," she adds.Some of these claims go back to as long ago as the late 1980s, Akers says. "Some of these are connected to very historic investigations that the Met has undertaken," she adds.
10.27am: Akers is asked about timing of Operation Elveden.10.27am: Akers is asked about timing of Operation Elveden.
She says she is "less confident in saying we're nearer the end than the beginning" with Elveden, unlike Operation Weeting.She says she is "less confident in saying we're nearer the end than the beginning" with Elveden, unlike Operation Weeting.
Akers says because News International is giving "voluntary disclosure" to police, the Met is not obtaining evidence via a production order. Under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act, the police are not entitled to seek a warrant where there is co-operation.Akers says because News International is giving "voluntary disclosure" to police, the Met is not obtaining evidence via a production order. Under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act, the police are not entitled to seek a warrant where there is co-operation.
10.25am: Akers says that information from News Corp's MSC led to the arrest of a journalist at the Sun in November last year.10.25am: Akers says that information from News Corp's MSC led to the arrest of a journalist at the Sun in November last year.
The further arrests at the Sun last month came from disclosures from the MSC "as well as our own analysis" of material handed over, Akers confirms.The further arrests at the Sun last month came from disclosures from the MSC "as well as our own analysis" of material handed over, Akers confirms.
The police want to question one further journalist who is abroad, she adds.The police want to question one further journalist who is abroad, she adds.
10.23am: Akers says that the Met police has a "co-operative working relationship" with News Corp's internal investigation unit, the management and standards committee (MSC).10.23am: Akers says that the Met police has a "co-operative working relationship" with News Corp's internal investigation unit, the management and standards committee (MSC).
Akers says that "reasonably senior" News of the World journalists have been arrested under Operation Elveden between June and December.Akers says that "reasonably senior" News of the World journalists have been arrested under Operation Elveden between June and December.
No police officers have been identified as suspects in relation to the News of the World, Akers confirms. The material has come from the newspapers and so the sources are not identified.No police officers have been identified as suspects in relation to the News of the World, Akers confirms. The material has come from the newspapers and so the sources are not identified.
10.19am: Akers is asked about Operation Elveden, the investigation into payments to police officers by journalists.10.19am: Akers is asked about Operation Elveden, the investigation into payments to police officers by journalists.
Akers says there is a "very legitimate public interest" in investigating this.Akers says there is a "very legitimate public interest" in investigating this.
She adds that 40 police officers and staff are currently working on Elveden, but that team will be expanded to 61 officers in light of the investigation into the Sun.She adds that 40 police officers and staff are currently working on Elveden, but that team will be expanded to 61 officers in light of the investigation into the Sun.
Fourteen people have been arrested so far under Elveden.Fourteen people have been arrested so far under Elveden.
10.18am: Jay asks if Akers "is nearer the finishing line than the starting gun". She agrees.10.18am: Jay asks if Akers "is nearer the finishing line than the starting gun". She agrees.
Akers adds that a total of 90 police officers are working on Operation Weeting, including 35 who are "dedicated to the victims, which has been quite time consuming".Akers adds that a total of 90 police officers are working on Operation Weeting, including 35 who are "dedicated to the victims, which has been quite time consuming".
10.17am: Akers says that "a number of key witnesses" have come forward but the police want to see more. "That process is ongoing. It will take a few more months," Akers tells the inquiry.10.17am: Akers says that "a number of key witnesses" have come forward but the police want to see more. "That process is ongoing. It will take a few more months," Akers tells the inquiry.
Jay says that 300m emails have been retrieved from News International, including material that the police thought had been lost.Jay says that 300m emails have been retrieved from News International, including material that the police thought had been lost.
Akers says the search of that material is in a relatively advanced stage. The Met police has found hard archives of some material.Akers says the search of that material is in a relatively advanced stage. The Met police has found hard archives of some material.
10.15am: The police have contacted 581 of those 829 likely phone hacking victims, Akers says. A further 231 are uncontactable, but are identified in Mulcaire's notes. Seventeen people have not been contacted for "operational reasons".10.15am: The police have contacted 581 of those 829 likely phone hacking victims, Akers says. A further 231 are uncontactable, but are identified in Mulcaire's notes. Seventeen people have not been contacted for "operational reasons".
Two of the 17 people arrested under Operation Weeting have had no further action taken against them and 15 are on bail.Two of the 17 people arrested under Operation Weeting have had no further action taken against them and 15 are on bail.
10.13am: The number of people contacted by police or writing in to police asking if they were hacked is 2,900, Akers confirms. Of those, 1,578 actually appeared in Mulcaire's notes.10.13am: The number of people contacted by police or writing in to police asking if they were hacked is 2,900, Akers confirms. Of those, 1,578 actually appeared in Mulcaire's notes.
Akers says there are 829 "likely" victims – those who have detail around their names that make it likely they were hacked or had potential to be hacked.Akers says there are 829 "likely" victims – those who have detail around their names that make it likely they were hacked or had potential to be hacked.
10.08am: Jay confirms that there are 6,349 potential victims – identifiable names of people in information held under Operation Weeting – of phone hacking. There are 11,000 pages in the seized notes of private investigator Glenn Mulcaire. The number of names with phone numbers alongside is 4,375.10.08am: Jay confirms that there are 6,349 potential victims – identifiable names of people in information held under Operation Weeting – of phone hacking. There are 11,000 pages in the seized notes of private investigator Glenn Mulcaire. The number of names with phone numbers alongside is 4,375.
10.05am: Akers is the police chief in charge of the Operation Weeting investigation into phone hacking; the Operation Tuleta investigation into computer hacking to procure information on behalf of newspapers; and Operating Elveden, the police investigation into inappropriate payments to police officers by journalists.10.05am: Akers is the police chief in charge of the Operation Weeting investigation into phone hacking; the Operation Tuleta investigation into computer hacking to procure information on behalf of newspapers; and Operating Elveden, the police investigation into inappropriate payments to police officers by journalists.
10.02am: Sue Akers, the detective assistant commissioner of the Met police, has taken the stand.10.02am: Sue Akers, the detective assistant commissioner of the Met police, has taken the stand.
Robert Jay QC, counsel to the inquiry, is leading the questioning.Robert Jay QC, counsel to the inquiry, is leading the questioning.
9.59am: Our correspondent at the Royal Courts of Justice, Lisa O'Carroll, has just tweeted that Sue Akers, the deputy assistant commissioner of the Met police, will be the first witness of the day. Daily Mail editor Paul Dacre is expected to appear this afternoon.9.59am: Our correspondent at the Royal Courts of Justice, Lisa O'Carroll, has just tweeted that Sue Akers, the deputy assistant commissioner of the Met police, will be the first witness of the day. Daily Mail editor Paul Dacre is expected to appear this afternoon.
#leveson order for today Akers, Owens, wooton, then dacre in the afternoon#leveson order for today Akers, Owens, wooton, then dacre in the afternoon
— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) February 6, 2012— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) February 6, 2012
9.41am: Former News of the World showbiz correspondent Dan Wootton has revealed his pre-Leveson preparation: an uplifting dose of the Canadian singer Alanis Morissette.9.41am: Former News of the World showbiz correspondent Dan Wootton has revealed his pre-Leveson preparation: an uplifting dose of the Canadian singer Alanis Morissette.
Big morning ahead so I'm listening to Alanis. Obv.Big morning ahead so I'm listening to Alanis. Obv.
— Dan Wootton (@danwootton) February 6, 2012— Dan Wootton (@danwootton) February 6, 2012
9.40am: Good morning and welcome to the Leveson inquiry live blog.9.40am: Good morning and welcome to the Leveson inquiry live blog.
Paul Dacre, editor-in-chief of the Daily Mail, and Sue Akers, the Metropolitan police deputy assistant commissioner in charge of three major investigations into alleged press illegality, will give evidence to the inquiry today.Paul Dacre, editor-in-chief of the Daily Mail, and Sue Akers, the Metropolitan police deputy assistant commissioner in charge of three major investigations into alleged press illegality, will give evidence to the inquiry today.
Fleet Street's longest-serving newspaper editor is likely to be asked about the Daily Mail's use of the private investigator Steve Whittamore, as uncovered in the information commissioner's report What Price Privacy Now? in 2006. Dacre is also expected to be asked about Associated Newspapers' accusation of "mendacious smears" against Hugh Grant after the actor gave evidence to the inquiry last year.Fleet Street's longest-serving newspaper editor is likely to be asked about the Daily Mail's use of the private investigator Steve Whittamore, as uncovered in the information commissioner's report What Price Privacy Now? in 2006. Dacre is also expected to be asked about Associated Newspapers' accusation of "mendacious smears" against Hugh Grant after the actor gave evidence to the inquiry last year.
Akers will become the first serving police officer to be quizzed by the Leveson inquiry.Akers will become the first serving police officer to be quizzed by the Leveson inquiry.
Two journalists, the Sunday Mirror reporter Nick Owens and the former News of the World showbiz correspondent Dan Wootton, will also appear.Two journalists, the Sunday Mirror reporter Nick Owens and the former News of the World showbiz correspondent Dan Wootton, will also appear.
Follow the inquiry live from 10am.Follow the inquiry live from 10am.