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Politics live blog: Ed Miliband interviewed on Today Politics live blog: Ed Miliband interviewed on Today
(40 minutes later)
2.17pm: The Western Morning News has been handing out Cornish pasties to MPs and their researchers in the House of Commons today as part of their campaign against the "pasty tax". The leftovers made it up to the press gallery, and I've just scoffed one. Very nice it was too.
1.58pm: And Harriet Harman, Labour's deputy leader, has been on the offensive on this issue too. She has just told Sky's Bouton & Co that, if Jeremy Hunt wants to show that he was unaware of the full extent of the contact between his special adviser Adam Smith and News Corporation, he should publish his email correspondence with Smith.1.58pm: And Harriet Harman, Labour's deputy leader, has been on the offensive on this issue too. She has just told Sky's Bouton & Co that, if Jeremy Hunt wants to show that he was unaware of the full extent of the contact between his special adviser Adam Smith and News Corporation, he should publish his email correspondence with Smith.
One of the MPs yesterday in the House of Commons, Tom Harris, said the relationship between special advisers and secretaries of state is like this. It's closer than they are to their wife or husband. They see more of them than they see of their children or the prime minister. The idea that [Hunt] did not know what [Smith] was doing is simply not credible. If he can prove I'm wrong, if he thinks I'm overly suspicious, he can prove it by publishing the emails.One of the MPs yesterday in the House of Commons, Tom Harris, said the relationship between special advisers and secretaries of state is like this. It's closer than they are to their wife or husband. They see more of them than they see of their children or the prime minister. The idea that [Hunt] did not know what [Smith] was doing is simply not credible. If he can prove I'm wrong, if he thinks I'm overly suspicious, he can prove it by publishing the emails.
Harman also said that she was writing to Jonathan Stephens, permanent secretary at the Department for Culture, to find out whether he really did authorise Smith to serve as the department's link with News Corporation over the BSkyB deal, as Hunt claims. She said the idea that a permanent secretary would authorise a political adviser to play this role, in a matter involving a quasi-judicial decision, "does not sound at all credible".Harman also said that she was writing to Jonathan Stephens, permanent secretary at the Department for Culture, to find out whether he really did authorise Smith to serve as the department's link with News Corporation over the BSkyB deal, as Hunt claims. She said the idea that a permanent secretary would authorise a political adviser to play this role, in a matter involving a quasi-judicial decision, "does not sound at all credible".
1.56pm: Bernard Jenkin, the Tory MP who chairs the Commons public administration committee, told the World at One that Sir Alex Allan, the prime minister's independent adviser on ministerial interests, should investigate the allegations against Jeremy Hunt. I've taken the quote from PoliticsHome.1.56pm: Bernard Jenkin, the Tory MP who chairs the Commons public administration committee, told the World at One that Sir Alex Allan, the prime minister's independent adviser on ministerial interests, should investigate the allegations against Jeremy Hunt. I've taken the quote from PoliticsHome.
I have not had a chance to study this myself yet enough, but it shouldn't be a question for me. It should be refered to Sir Alex Allan and he should decide whether there is a case to answer. That's what should happen.I have not had a chance to study this myself yet enough, but it shouldn't be a question for me. It should be refered to Sir Alex Allan and he should decide whether there is a case to answer. That's what should happen.
Jenkin also said he thought Hunt's decision to let his special adviser get involved in a quasi-judicial decision of this kind was "extraordinary"Jenkin also said he thought Hunt's decision to let his special adviser get involved in a quasi-judicial decision of this kind was "extraordinary"
1.30pm: Here's a lunchtime summary.1.30pm: Here's a lunchtime summary.
• Rupert Murdoch has admitted to the Leveson inquiry that there was a "cover-up" at News International over the phone-hacking scandal. He made the comment in his final evidence session, which has only just ended. There are full details on our live blog.

• David Cameron has rejected calls for an investigation into claims that Jeremy Hunt broke the ministerial code in his dealings with News Corporation. Yesterday Harriet Harman, Labour's deputy leader, wrote to Cameron asking him to get Sir Alex Allan, his independent adviser on ministerial interests, to investigate claims that Hunt broke three rules in the ministerial code. Today Number 10 said that there were "no plans" for an investigation and that Cameron was satisfied that Hunt acted properly. (As my colleague Patrick Wintour points out, Allan has said in the past that he may stand down if he feels he is being sidelined. "If I felt that I was being deliberately bypassed in favour of the Cabinet Secretary doing investigations then, yes, I would agree that in those circumstances there was not any point in my continuing in the role and I would step down," Allan told a Commons committee.)

• Ed Miliband has said that Jeremy Hunt's failure to resign over the help he provided to News Corporation in its BSkyB takeover battle is "incredible". He said that he presumed Cameron had not sacked Hunt because Hunt was acting as a "firewall" protecting the prime minister.		• Rupert Murdoch has admitted to the Leveson inquiry that there was a "cover-up" at News International over the phone-hacking scandal. He made the comment in his final evidence session, which has only just ended. There are full details on our live blog.

• David Cameron has rejected calls for an investigation into claims that Jeremy Hunt broke the ministerial code in his dealings with News Corporation. Yesterday Harriet Harman, Labour's deputy leader, wrote to Cameron asking him to get Sir Alex Allan, his independent adviser on ministerial interests, to investigate claims that Hunt broke three rules in the ministerial code. Today Number 10 said that there were "no plans" for an investigation and that Cameron was satisfied that Hunt acted properly. (As my colleague Patrick Wintour points out, Allan has said in the past that he may stand down if he feels he is being sidelined. "If I felt that I was being deliberately bypassed in favour of the Cabinet Secretary doing investigations then, yes, I would agree that in those circumstances there was not any point in my continuing in the role and I would step down," Allan told a Commons committee.)

• Ed Miliband has said that Jeremy Hunt's failure to resign over the help he provided to News Corporation in its BSkyB takeover battle is "incredible". He said that he presumed Cameron had not sacked Hunt because Hunt was acting as a "firewall" protecting the prime minister.
• Downing Street has denied claims that it misled MPs about Cameron's meetings with Rupert Murdoch. As the Press Association reports, Labour MP Chris Bryant told the Commons that a list of meetings submitted by Mr Murdoch suggested that the pair had met more often than was admitted by Downing Street. However, Lord Justice Leveson this morning indicated that the list, which has not yet been published, may be revised by lawyers before being released to the public. And he issued a warning against leaks by "core participants" in the inquiry, such as Bryant, who have advance access to documents and witness statements via a secure computer system called Lextranet. Yesterday Bryant told MPs: "Rupert Murdoch - this has been published by the Leveson Inquiry - made it clear that there were meetings with the prime minister on May 18, May 25, July 21, another on July 21 and July 22." He said that this appeared to contradict the list of the PM's meetings with press proprietors, editors and senior media executives released by Downing Street, which recorded only one meeting with Murdoch between May 2010, when he took office, and July 2011. Cameron's spokesman told reporters this morning: "We are confident that the list we published was correct. As I understand it, there is some revised evidence being presented to the inquiry this morning detailing meetings. I haven't seen that because it hasn't been published. Our list is based on our diary records and we believe those diary records are comprehensive."

• Jonathan Stephens, permanent secretary at the Department for Culture, has refused to answer questions about Jeremy Hunt's links with News Corporation. Stephens was giving evidence to the Commons public accounts committee about the Olympics. Asked about Hunt and News Corp, he said: "I am very sorry. These are very important matters. They are rightly the subject of interest and that is why the secretary of state made the statement on the question [yesterday] and that is why he wants to give evidence to the Leveson Inquiry and is preparing his evidence."		• Downing Street has denied claims that it misled MPs about Cameron's meetings with Rupert Murdoch. As the Press Association reports, Labour MP Chris Bryant told the Commons that a list of meetings submitted by Mr Murdoch suggested that the pair had met more often than was admitted by Downing Street. However, Lord Justice Leveson this morning indicated that the list, which has not yet been published, may be revised by lawyers before being released to the public. And he issued a warning against leaks by "core participants" in the inquiry, such as Bryant, who have advance access to documents and witness statements via a secure computer system called Lextranet. Yesterday Bryant told MPs: "Rupert Murdoch - this has been published by the Leveson Inquiry - made it clear that there were meetings with the prime minister on May 18, May 25, July 21, another on July 21 and July 22." He said that this appeared to contradict the list of the PM's meetings with press proprietors, editors and senior media executives released by Downing Street, which recorded only one meeting with Murdoch between May 2010, when he took office, and July 2011. Cameron's spokesman told reporters this morning: "We are confident that the list we published was correct. As I understand it, there is some revised evidence being presented to the inquiry this morning detailing meetings. I haven't seen that because it hasn't been published. Our list is based on our diary records and we believe those diary records are comprehensive."

• Jonathan Stephens, permanent secretary at the Department for Culture, has refused to answer questions about Jeremy Hunt's links with News Corporation. Stephens was giving evidence to the Commons public accounts committee about the Olympics. Asked about Hunt and News Corp, he said: "I am very sorry. These are very important matters. They are rightly the subject of interest and that is why the secretary of state made the statement on the question [yesterday] and that is why he wants to give evidence to the Leveson Inquiry and is preparing his evidence."
• Johann Lamont, Labour's leader in Scotland, has branded Alex Salmond a "sucker" because of his close relations with Rupert Murdoch. She made the claim in First Minister's Questions in the Scottish parliament.• Johann Lamont, Labour's leader in Scotland, has branded Alex Salmond a "sucker" because of his close relations with Rupert Murdoch. She made the claim in First Minister's Questions in the Scottish parliament.
• Ed Miliband has said that he wants to give more power to headteachers. He made the comment in a Today programme interview in which he claimed that he was committed to decentralisation. "I'm not somebody who thinks that the centralised state has all the answers," he said. (See 8.56am.)• Ed Miliband has said that he wants to give more power to headteachers. He made the comment in a Today programme interview in which he claimed that he was committed to decentralisation. "I'm not somebody who thinks that the centralised state has all the answers," he said. (See 8.56am.)
• A new poll has put Boris Johnson eight points ahead of Ken Livingstone in the contest to become London mayor.• A new poll has put Boris Johnson eight points ahead of Ken Livingstone in the contest to become London mayor.
• David Cameron has claimed that Britain is at the forefront of global efforts to develop renewable energy. Caroline Flint, the shadow energy secretary, said: "No amount of hot air from David Cameron can disguise this Government's failure to get behind British green businesses and jobs."

• Bakers have been holding a protest in Westminster about the "pasty tax".		• David Cameron has claimed that Britain is at the forefront of global efforts to develop renewable energy. Caroline Flint, the shadow energy secretary, said: "No amount of hot air from David Cameron can disguise this Government's failure to get behind British green businesses and jobs."

• Bakers have been holding a protest in Westminster about the "pasty tax".
12.50pm: In his morning briefing email, the Telegraph's Benedict Brogan said Sir Jeremy Heywood, the cabinet secretary, was involved in talks with Lord Justice Leveson about whether the Leveson inquiry would look into Jeremy Hunt's contacts with News Corporation.12.50pm: In his morning briefing email, the Telegraph's Benedict Brogan said Sir Jeremy Heywood, the cabinet secretary, was involved in talks with Lord Justice Leveson about whether the Leveson inquiry would look into Jeremy Hunt's contacts with News Corporation.

Jeremy Hunt's statement and the disposal of Adam Smith, his "rogue" adviser, have won him some breathing room. That and the decision to let Lord Justice Leveson rule on his behaviour - a decision apparently brokered between Sir Jeremy Heywood and the inquiry chairman on Tuesday night.
Jeremy Hunt's statement and the disposal of Adam Smith, his "rogue" adviser, have won him some breathing room. That and the decision to let Lord Justice Leveson rule on his behaviour - a decision apparently brokered between Sir Jeremy Heywood and the inquiry chairman on Tuesday night.
As PoliticsHome report, the Cabinet Office have now issued this statement about the Heywood/Leveson contact,As PoliticsHome report, the Cabinet Office have now issued this statement about the Heywood/Leveson contact,

The cabinet secretary and the Treasury solicitor spoke to the judge on Tuesday afternoon to inform him of the fact that members of Parliament were asking the cabinet secretary to investigate some of the allegations which were being made against Jeremy Hunt and to seek his views which he has now made public.
The cabinet secretary and the Treasury solicitor spoke to the judge on Tuesday afternoon to inform him of the fact that members of Parliament were asking the cabinet secretary to investigate some of the allegations which were being made against Jeremy Hunt and to seek his views which he has now made public.
12.11pm: Jemima Khan has interviewed George Galloway for the New Statesman. I haven't read the full interview yet, but the New Statesman has sent out some extracts. Here are the best points.12.11pm: Jemima Khan has interviewed George Galloway for the New Statesman. I haven't read the full interview yet, but the New Statesman has sent out some extracts. Here are the best points.
• Galloway is a Muslim, the NS says. "He converted more than ten years ago in a ceremony at a hotel in Kilburn, north-west London, attended by members of the Muslim Association of Great Britain," the magazine says. "Those close to him know this. The rest of the world, including his Muslim constituents, does not."• Galloway is a Muslim, the NS says. "He converted more than ten years ago in a ceremony at a hotel in Kilburn, north-west London, attended by members of the Muslim Association of Great Britain," the magazine says. "Those close to him know this. The rest of the world, including his Muslim constituents, does not."
• Galloway thinks that he could become a national treasure.• Galloway thinks that he could become a national treasure.
One day, maybe I'll be a national treasure like Tony Benn, but not yet, I hope.One day, maybe I'll be a national treasure like Tony Benn, but not yet, I hope.
• He thinks that Ed Miliband's decision to stand against his elder brother in the Labour leadership contest represented "moral turpitude". Here's the full quote.• He thinks that Ed Miliband's decision to stand against his elder brother in the Labour leadership contest represented "moral turpitude". Here's the full quote.
I think one of the problems, call it Shakespearian or call it biblical, is that [Ed Miliband] is marked with the original sin of doing something that is unnatural, doing something against the natural order of things. It is moral turpitude to stand against your older brother and, in doing so, plunge a dagger into his breast. And I think that might, in the end, be a very telling point in what comes next. Because it would be even more Shakespearian if the brother got up out of the grave and murdered the brother that had murdered him.I think one of the problems, call it Shakespearian or call it biblical, is that [Ed Miliband] is marked with the original sin of doing something that is unnatural, doing something against the natural order of things. It is moral turpitude to stand against your older brother and, in doing so, plunge a dagger into his breast. And I think that might, in the end, be a very telling point in what comes next. Because it would be even more Shakespearian if the brother got up out of the grave and murdered the brother that had murdered him.
11.58am: I can't put it off any longer. I'm afraid I've got to write about David Cameron's environment speech this morning.11.58am: I can't put it off any longer. I'm afraid I've got to write about David Cameron's environment speech this morning.
As my colleague Damian Carrington explained yesterday, Cameron was due to make an important speech on the subject today. But it was downgraded, and instead it became something that, frankly, was rather dull. He said some green energy investments being announced today could create up to 800 jobs. And he said that a new partnership, Norstec, will be announced to develop offshore wind opportunities in the North Sea. You can read full details on the Number 10 website.As my colleague Damian Carrington explained yesterday, Cameron was due to make an important speech on the subject today. But it was downgraded, and instead it became something that, frankly, was rather dull. He said some green energy investments being announced today could create up to 800 jobs. And he said that a new partnership, Norstec, will be announced to develop offshore wind opportunities in the North Sea. You can read full details on the Number 10 website.
There's some Guardian video from his speech here.There's some Guardian video from his speech here.
It only lasts a minute.It only lasts a minute.
11.43am: And, for the record, here are the YouGov GB polling figures from last night.11.43am: And, for the record, here are the YouGov GB polling figures from last night.
Labour: 43% (no change since Tuesday night)
Conservatives: 32% (no change)
Lib Dems: 9% (up 1)		Labour: 43% (no change since Tuesday night)
Conservatives: 32% (no change)
Lib Dems: 9% (up 1)
Labour lead: 11 pointsLabour lead: 11 points
Government approval: -40Government approval: -40
11.41am: A ComRes poll puts Boris Johnson eight points ahead of Ken Livingstone in the London mayoral race. The election takes place a week today.11.41am: A ComRes poll puts Boris Johnson eight points ahead of Ken Livingstone in the London mayoral race. The election takes place a week today.
11.05am: You can read all today's Guardian politics stories here. And all the politics stories filed yesterday, including some in today's paper, are here.11.05am: You can read all today's Guardian politics stories here. And all the politics stories filed yesterday, including some in today's paper, are here.
I don't normally flag up Guardian stories in my round up, partly because if you are reading this, you may be reading other stories on the site anyway, and partly because I take the view that the Guardian's always good and it's invidious to pick out certain articles and not others. But I'll make an exception today because some of our coverage is exceptional. I'd particularly recommend:I don't normally flag up Guardian stories in my round up, partly because if you are reading this, you may be reading other stories on the site anyway, and partly because I take the view that the Guardian's always good and it's invidious to pick out certain articles and not others. But I'll make an exception today because some of our coverage is exceptional. I'd particularly recommend:
• Harold Evans on how Rupert Murdoch's account of his takeover of the Times and the Sunday Times was wrong.

• Nick Davies on how Rupert Murdoch's evidence yesterday was more revealing than he intended.		• Harold Evans on how Rupert Murdoch's account of his takeover of the Times and the Sunday Times was wrong.

• Nick Davies on how Rupert Murdoch's evidence yesterday was more revealing than he intended.
• Michael White's sketch on Rupert Murdoch.

• Simon Hoggart's sketch on Jeremy Hunt.		• Michael White's sketch on Rupert Murdoch.

• Simon Hoggart's sketch on Jeremy Hunt.
• David Leigh on whether or not the claims made by Jeremy Hunt in his defence stand up.

• Martin Kettle on how the demise of the Murdochs could affect Britain's Europe policy for a generation.		• David Leigh on whether or not the claims made by Jeremy Hunt in his defence stand up.

• Martin Kettle on how the demise of the Murdochs could affect Britain's Europe policy for a generation.
As for the rest of the papers, here are some articles that are particularly interesting.As for the rest of the papers, here are some articles that are particularly interesting.
• Peter Oborne in the Daily Telegraph suggests the Murdoch affair could bring down David Cameron.• Peter Oborne in the Daily Telegraph suggests the Murdoch affair could bring down David Cameron.

There is emerging circumstantial evidence that the Cameron government entered into what looks suspiciously like a Grand Bargain with the Murdoch newspaper empire before the last election. It may have gone like this: the Murdoch press would throw its weight behind the Conservative Party in the 2010 general election, and in return the Conservatives would back known Murdoch policy objectives ...
There is emerging circumstantial evidence that the Cameron government entered into what looks suspiciously like a Grand Bargain with the Murdoch newspaper empire before the last election. It may have gone like this: the Murdoch press would throw its weight behind the Conservative Party in the 2010 general election, and in return the Conservatives would back known Murdoch policy objectives ...
At this stage the evidence is only circumstantial, but the charge that the Cameron government has done commercial favours for the Murdochs in return for political support is very serious. This, if true, would amount to corruption. Certainly, if proven, it would force the resignation of Mr Hunt. But it is not impossible that the Government would fall. Mr Hunt is one of Mr Cameron's closest friends in the Cabinet, and would never have set out on the course he did without the agreement of the Prime Minister.At this stage the evidence is only circumstantial, but the charge that the Cameron government has done commercial favours for the Murdochs in return for political support is very serious. This, if true, would amount to corruption. Certainly, if proven, it would force the resignation of Mr Hunt. But it is not impossible that the Government would fall. Mr Hunt is one of Mr Cameron's closest friends in the Cabinet, and would never have set out on the course he did without the agreement of the Prime Minister.
• Steve Richards in the Independent says a government has never been as fragile since the Major government in the 1990s.• Steve Richards in the Independent says a government has never been as fragile since the Major government in the 1990s.
The Leveson Inquiry and the police investigation continue and will make waves every now and again right up until the next election. Cameron can just about brush aside allegations that he got too close to Murdoch on the basis that his Prime Ministerial predecessors did the same, although it becomes much harder for him to claim he is a different type of leader who has learnt from the past. But it is the BSkyB deal that makes the association more toxic, and there are too many emails and investigations to assume that no more will emerge.The Leveson Inquiry and the police investigation continue and will make waves every now and again right up until the next election. Cameron can just about brush aside allegations that he got too close to Murdoch on the basis that his Prime Ministerial predecessors did the same, although it becomes much harder for him to claim he is a different type of leader who has learnt from the past. But it is the BSkyB deal that makes the association more toxic, and there are too many emails and investigations to assume that no more will emerge.
A government has never been as fragile since John Major staggered from crisis to crisis in the mid 1990s.A government has never been as fragile since John Major staggered from crisis to crisis in the mid 1990s.
• Cahal Milmo and Oliver Wright in the Independent says the Financial Services Authority may launch an inquiry into Jeremy Hunt's adviser.• Cahal Milmo and Oliver Wright in the Independent says the Financial Services Authority may launch an inquiry into Jeremy Hunt's adviser.
• Rowena Mason in the Daily Telegraph says Rupert Murdoch met David Cameron on at least five more occasions than Cameron has admitted.• Rowena Mason in the Daily Telegraph says Rupert Murdoch met David Cameron on at least five more occasions than Cameron has admitted.
10.34am: Sir George Young, the leader of the Commons, has published a green paper on parliamentary privilege (pdf). He has also announced that the government will set up a joint committee of both Houses to consider. Here's an extract from the green paper.10.34am: Sir George Young, the leader of the Commons, has published a green paper on parliamentary privilege (pdf). He has also announced that the government will set up a joint committee of both Houses to consider. Here's an extract from the green paper.
All strong democracies have at their core the recognition that parliamentarians must be free to speak their mind in debates – and MPs to represent their constituents' views - without fear or favour. This is at the heart of the privileges of Parliament which are an integral part of our constitutional arrangements. Indeed, the privileges of the Westminster Parliament are the model for the privileges of many legislatures around the world.All strong democracies have at their core the recognition that parliamentarians must be free to speak their mind in debates – and MPs to represent their constituents' views - without fear or favour. This is at the heart of the privileges of Parliament which are an integral part of our constitutional arrangements. Indeed, the privileges of the Westminster Parliament are the model for the privileges of many legislatures around the world.
But parliamentary privilege is little understood outside of Westminster, and the connotation of the word "privilege" is unfortunate in its suggestion of special treatment for Members of Parliament. That connotation was reinforced in 2010 when some MPs and peers attempted to invoke parliamentary privilege to prevent criminal prosecutions for offences relating to their parliamentary expenses. Of course, this attempt ultimately failed; it was reassuring that it did so, because it showed that privilege is only intended to provide protection in relation to the core functions of Parliament. Nonetheless, it served as a reminder that even the most durable of constitutional tenets should periodically be reviewed.But parliamentary privilege is little understood outside of Westminster, and the connotation of the word "privilege" is unfortunate in its suggestion of special treatment for Members of Parliament. That connotation was reinforced in 2010 when some MPs and peers attempted to invoke parliamentary privilege to prevent criminal prosecutions for offences relating to their parliamentary expenses. Of course, this attempt ultimately failed; it was reassuring that it did so, because it showed that privilege is only intended to provide protection in relation to the core functions of Parliament. Nonetheless, it served as a reminder that even the most durable of constitutional tenets should periodically be reviewed.
The green paper covers issues like whether the Commons should have the power to fine members of the public for not cooperating with select committee inquiries.The green paper covers issues like whether the Commons should have the power to fine members of the public for not cooperating with select committee inquiries.
10.06am: Rupert Murdoch has started giving evidence again to Leveson. Josh Halliday and John Plunkett are covering it on their live blog.10.06am: Rupert Murdoch has started giving evidence again to Leveson. Josh Halliday and John Plunkett are covering it on their live blog.
Lord Justice Leveson started by saying that he was tightening up the rules about witness statements and exhibits. This seemed to be a rebuke to the Labour MP Chris Bryant, who used a point of order in the Commons yesterday to accuse David Cameron of misleading MPs about his meetings with Rupert Murdoch. As a partipant in the inquiry, Byrant has access to witness statements before they are made public, and he was referring to information that he thought had already been released.Lord Justice Leveson started by saying that he was tightening up the rules about witness statements and exhibits. This seemed to be a rebuke to the Labour MP Chris Bryant, who used a point of order in the Commons yesterday to accuse David Cameron of misleading MPs about his meetings with Rupert Murdoch. As a partipant in the inquiry, Byrant has access to witness statements before they are made public, and he was referring to information that he thought had already been released.
9.59am: Yesterday there were not many Liberal Democrats speaking up for Jeremy Hunt in the Commons. But this morning Don Foster, the Lib Dem backbencher, has spoken up for the culture secretary. It's not the most ringing endorsement I've ever heard, but it is positive. Here's what Foster said on Radio 5 Live. I've taken the quote from PoliticsHome.9.59am: Yesterday there were not many Liberal Democrats speaking up for Jeremy Hunt in the Commons. But this morning Don Foster, the Lib Dem backbencher, has spoken up for the culture secretary. It's not the most ringing endorsement I've ever heard, but it is positive. Here's what Foster said on Radio 5 Live. I've taken the quote from PoliticsHome.

What I'm trying to tell you is very simple. I do not know, and no evidence has yet been provided that Jeremy Hunt himself, the person who made the decision, actually did anything wrong. He tried his very best to be as impartial as he could, and ultimately he took a decision that anybody who's accusing him of bias would find difficult to explain, how did he make a decision that was not the one News Corporation wanted him to make, despite him having been accused as a cheerleader for the Murdochs.
What I'm trying to tell you is very simple. I do not know, and no evidence has yet been provided that Jeremy Hunt himself, the person who made the decision, actually did anything wrong. He tried his very best to be as impartial as he could, and ultimately he took a decision that anybody who's accusing him of bias would find difficult to explain, how did he make a decision that was not the one News Corporation wanted him to make, despite him having been accused as a cheerleader for the Murdochs.
8.56am: As well as giving an interview to the Today programme, Ed Miliband has also been on Radio 5 Live. Here's a summary of the main points from both interviews. I've taken some of the quotes from the Press Association and PoliticsHome.8.56am: As well as giving an interview to the Today programme, Ed Miliband has also been on Radio 5 Live. Here's a summary of the main points from both interviews. I've taken some of the quotes from the Press Association and PoliticsHome.
• Miliband said it was "incredible" that Jeremy Hunt had not already resigned because it was impossible to believe that his adviser passed all the information that he did to News Corporation without Hunt's knowledge.• Miliband said it was "incredible" that Jeremy Hunt had not already resigned because it was impossible to believe that his adviser passed all the information that he did to News Corporation without Hunt's knowledge.
It beggars belief that he's still in his job, because to believe that he should stay you have to believe that his special adviser was, if you like, a lone wolf, who spent six months in collusion with News Corporation, passing information that was to be announced in the House of Commons, providing information about discussions with the regulator, providing information about what opposing parties were saying. I think it's incredible that Jeremy Hunt hasn't resigned and that David Cameron has kept him in his job.It beggars belief that he's still in his job, because to believe that he should stay you have to believe that his special adviser was, if you like, a lone wolf, who spent six months in collusion with News Corporation, passing information that was to be announced in the House of Commons, providing information about discussions with the regulator, providing information about what opposing parties were saying. I think it's incredible that Jeremy Hunt hasn't resigned and that David Cameron has kept him in his job.
He also said that Hunt was now acting as a "firewall" for Cameron.He also said that Hunt was now acting as a "firewall" for Cameron.
• Miliband rejected claims that Labour were just as bad as this government in allowing themselves to become too close to Rupert Murdoch. "There is a world of difference between being too close to the Murdochs and the pattern of behaviour we've seen revealed in the past few days," Miliband said. But he did accept that that Labour's relationship with the Murdochs should have been different. "In retrospect we all should have been more wary about our relationships with them," he said.

• He claimed that he believed strongly in decentralisation. He insisted that he did not believe the "centralised state" was the solution to all social problems.		• Miliband rejected claims that Labour were just as bad as this government in allowing themselves to become too close to Rupert Murdoch. "There is a world of difference between being too close to the Murdochs and the pattern of behaviour we've seen revealed in the past few days," Miliband said. But he did accept that that Labour's relationship with the Murdochs should have been different. "In retrospect we all should have been more wary about our relationships with them," he said.

• He claimed that he believed strongly in decentralisation. He insisted that he did not believe the "centralised state" was the solution to all social problems.
One of the issues in Britain today is that people aren't in love with the private sector, some parts of the private sector, but they certainly aren't in love with the state either. As a constituency MP, what do people come and talk to me about? They come and talk to me about their problems with state agencies and state bureaucracies. I'm not somebody who thinks that the centralised state has all the answers.One of the issues in Britain today is that people aren't in love with the private sector, some parts of the private sector, but they certainly aren't in love with the state either. As a constituency MP, what do people come and talk to me about? They come and talk to me about their problems with state agencies and state bureaucracies. I'm not somebody who thinks that the centralised state has all the answers.
By decentralisation, Milband seemed to be talking about devolving power from central government to local state providers, rather than from the state to the private sector, because he cited education as an example.

• He said Labour wanted to give headteachers more power.		By decentralisation, Milband seemed to be talking about devolving power from central government to local state providers, rather than from the state to the private sector, because he cited education as an example.

• He said Labour wanted to give headteachers more power.

As we think about our education policy, let's think about what more powers can be devolved to headteachers ... We shouldn't be the people who say let's hoard power in the centre. We should be the people who say, if there are good heateachers, they should have more power, not less. Or indeeed all headteachers. Let's devolve more power down to headteachers.
As we think about our education policy, let's think about what more powers can be devolved to headteachers ... We shouldn't be the people who say let's hoard power in the centre. We should be the people who say, if there are good heateachers, they should have more power, not less. Or indeeed all headteachers. Let's devolve more power down to headteachers.
• He rejected the idea of introducing regional pay in the public sector.• He rejected the idea of introducing regional pay in the public sector.
The lessons of regional pay as I have seen them are that it doesn't particularly work. In a way it's an acceptance of the north/south divide. You are basically saying to people, if you don't live in the south of England, you are going to get much lower living standards and much lower pay.The lessons of regional pay as I have seen them are that it doesn't particularly work. In a way it's an acceptance of the north/south divide. You are basically saying to people, if you don't live in the south of England, you are going to get much lower living standards and much lower pay.


• He said that he wanted Labour to address "intergenerational equality". This came up when he was asked about François Hollande, the Socialist candidate in the French presidential election. Miliband said he did not support Hollande's plan for a 75% top rate of tax, but that he hoped that he would win and that he supported what he was saying about intergenerational equality.

• He said that he wanted Labour to address "intergenerational equality". This came up when he was asked about François Hollande, the Socialist candidate in the French presidential election. Miliband said he did not support Hollande's plan for a 75% top rate of tax, but that he hoped that he would win and that he supported what he was saying about intergenerational equality.

One thing he is talking about is a question of intergenerational equality. I think that is a big issue for our country going forward. If I talk to young people, they feel their lives - and I'm not just talking about this government but more generally - they can't find a job, their tuition fees have trebled, they can't get a house. It is going to be a big issue.
One thing he is talking about is a question of intergenerational equality. I think that is a big issue for our country going forward. If I talk to young people, they feel their lives - and I'm not just talking about this government but more generally - they can't find a job, their tuition fees have trebled, they can't get a house. It is going to be a big issue.
• He said Labour had to show voters it was willing to take tough decisions.• He said Labour had to show voters it was willing to take tough decisions.
Why has the left been losing elections around the world? Partly because, I think, if you want tough decisions to be made, some people will think it's only the right, rightwing governments that can make that. I say that's not the case.Why has the left been losing elections around the world? Partly because, I think, if you want tough decisions to be made, some people will think it's only the right, rightwing governments that can make that. I say that's not the case.
• He said that he disagreed with the Tories on how to create wealth. • He said that he disagreed with the Tories on how to create wealth.
They believe that the way an economy succeeds ... you cut taxes at the top, and then wealth can trickle down. I don't believe that. I think it is the hardworking people of this country that create the wealth. We should be rewarding them.They believe that the way an economy succeeds ... you cut taxes at the top, and then wealth can trickle down. I don't believe that. I think it is the hardworking people of this country that create the wealth. We should be rewarding them.
(Miliband was using an argument that Barack Obama developed at length in a particularly good speech in the US earlier this month.)(Miliband was using an argument that Barack Obama developed at length in a particularly good speech in the US earlier this month.)
• He refused to put a figure on his preferred size of the state as a proportion of GDP. When Evan Davis asked him if he was comfortable with 45%, he dodged the question. But he also said that getting the economy to grow would automatically lead to state spending as a share of GDP coming down.• He refused to put a figure on his preferred size of the state as a proportion of GDP. When Evan Davis asked him if he was comfortable with 45%, he dodged the question. But he also said that getting the economy to grow would automatically lead to state spending as a share of GDP coming down.
8.45am: Here's some Twitter reaction to Ed Miliband's Today interview.8.45am: Here's some Twitter reaction to Ed Miliband's Today interview.
From ConservativeHome's Tim MontgomerieFrom ConservativeHome's Tim Montgomerie
Clear from that Ed Miliband interview that he's a centraliser -- opposing regionalised pay and Gove's schools reformsClear from that Ed Miliband interview that he's a centraliser -- opposing regionalised pay and Gove's schools reforms
— Tim Montgomerie (@TimMontgomerie) April 26, 2012— Tim Montgomerie (@TimMontgomerie) April 26, 2012
From the Telegraph's Iain MartinFrom the Telegraph's Iain Martin
V good @EvanHD interview with ED M on @BBCr4today - beyond the fuss of the moment, very revealing. At root Ed really loves the big stateV good @EvanHD interview with ED M on @BBCr4today - beyond the fuss of the moment, very revealing. At root Ed really loves the big state
— Iain Martin (@iainmartin1) April 26, 2012— Iain Martin (@iainmartin1) April 26, 2012
From Michael Dugher, the shadow Cabinet Office ministerFrom Michael Dugher, the shadow Cabinet Office minister
@iainmartin1 Ed pro-academies but wants to see a stronger local role and give more powers to heads. Sounds like your cup of tea, Iain.@iainmartin1 Ed pro-academies but wants to see a stronger local role and give more powers to heads. Sounds like your cup of tea, Iain.
— Michael Dugher (@MichaelDugherMP) April 26, 2012— Michael Dugher (@MichaelDugherMP) April 26, 2012
From Stewart Wood, a shadow minister and one of Miliband's key policy advisersFrom Stewart Wood, a shadow minister and one of Miliband's key policy advisers
.@TimMontgomerie Hi Tim: there are many reasons to oppose regionalised pay & question free schools other than an instinct for centralisation.@TimMontgomerie Hi Tim: there are many reasons to oppose regionalised pay & question free schools other than an instinct for centralisation
— Stewart Wood (@StewartWood) April 26, 2012— Stewart Wood (@StewartWood) April 26, 2012
From the Daily Mail's James ChapmanFrom the Daily Mail's James Chapman
Ed Miliband right to hit on intergenerational unfairness as a big issue. But logically means he must support granny tax? #todayEd Miliband right to hit on intergenerational unfairness as a big issue. But logically means he must support granny tax? #today
— James Chapman (Mail) (@jameschappers) April 26, 2012— James Chapman (Mail) (@jameschappers) April 26, 2012
From the Guardian's Polly CurtisFrom the Guardian's Polly Curtis
Miliband: "I do believe" "I do say" "I do think" "let me speak to that point". It's not important but it's not how people speak... #r4todayMiliband: "I do believe" "I do say" "I do think" "let me speak to that point". It's not important but it's not how people speak... #r4today
— polly curtis (@pollycurtis) April 26, 2012— polly curtis (@pollycurtis) April 26, 2012
From the Financial Times's Jim PickardFrom the Financial Times's Jim Pickard
Ed miliband should drop the irritating phrase, "I say to you"...Ed miliband should drop the irritating phrase, "I say to you"...
— Jim Pickard (@PickardJE) April 26, 2012— Jim Pickard (@PickardJE) April 26, 2012
8.28am: I'm not sure that was particularly revealing. I like the way Evan Davis adops a "let's explore some big issues" approach to interviewing instead of the "admit you're useless" approach or the crude headline-creating approach, but it only works if the interviewee is willing to open up, and today Miliband was not being particuarly candid.8.28am: I'm not sure that was particularly revealing. I like the way Evan Davis adops a "let's explore some big issues" approach to interviewing instead of the "admit you're useless" approach or the crude headline-creating approach, but it only works if the interviewee is willing to open up, and today Miliband was not being particuarly candid.
Still, Miliband was clear on regional pay, he was interesting on the need for the left to show that it can take tough decisions, he intriguingly said that he agreed with François Hollande on inter-generational justice and he gave us some fresh quotes on Jeremy Hunt. He also said something about wanting to devolve more power to headteachers which sounded new to me. I'll post a summary soon.Still, Miliband was clear on regional pay, he was interesting on the need for the left to show that it can take tough decisions, he intriguingly said that he agreed with François Hollande on inter-generational justice and he gave us some fresh quotes on Jeremy Hunt. He also said something about wanting to devolve more power to headteachers which sounded new to me. I'll post a summary soon.
8.23am: They turn to health.8.23am: They turn to health.
Q: Do you object to private health insurance?Q: Do you object to private health insurance?
Miliband says he is not going to stop Davis taking out private health insurance.Miliband says he is not going to stop Davis taking out private health insurance.
But he would like to show people that the NHS can be better.But he would like to show people that the NHS can be better.
Q: What do you think of François Hollande in France?Q: What do you think of François Hollande in France?
Miliband says he is not planning a 75% top rate of tax. But Hollande is saying austerity alone will not achieve what France needs. Miliband says he agrees with that.Miliband says he is not planning a 75% top rate of tax. But Hollande is saying austerity alone will not achieve what France needs. Miliband says he agrees with that.
The last Labour government did not do enough to change the economy.The last Labour government did not do enough to change the economy.
Q: Are you hoping Hollande wins?Q: Are you hoping Hollande wins?
Miliband says Hollande represents Labour's sister party, so he's wishing him luck.Miliband says Hollande represents Labour's sister party, so he's wishing him luck.
Hollande is also interested in inter-generational equality. That's a big issue.Hollande is also interested in inter-generational equality. That's a big issue.
8.20am: Davis turns to decentralisation.8.20am: Davis turns to decentralisation.
Q: Would you support regional pay?Q: Would you support regional pay?
Miliband says the evidence suggests it does not work. Regional pay would cement a north/south divide.Miliband says the evidence suggests it does not work. Regional pay would cement a north/south divide.
On the wider point, he says he is not someone who believes the state has all the answers. Michael Gove is a centralising education secretary, he says. Miliband says he does not agree. He would like to devolve more power to headteachers.On the wider point, he says he is not someone who believes the state has all the answers. Michael Gove is a centralising education secretary, he says. Miliband says he does not agree. He would like to devolve more power to headteachers.
Q: That's the same as Gove, isn't it?Q: That's the same as Gove, isn't it?
No, says Miliband. Gove does not see a role for local authorities. Miliband says he does see a role for them.No, says Miliband. Gove does not see a role for local authorities. Miliband says he does see a role for them.
Miliband also says Gove's policies are for the few, not the many. Davis cuts him off, because he does not just want to hear him slagging off the government.Miliband also says Gove's policies are for the few, not the many. Davis cuts him off, because he does not just want to hear him slagging off the government.
Q: But your answer on regional pay suggests you will revert to a centralising model.Q: But your answer on regional pay suggests you will revert to a centralising model.
Miliband says regional pay would not work.Miliband says regional pay would not work.
8.14am: Davis moves on to other issues.

Q: How big should government spending be as a proportion of national income? Roughly?		8.14am: Davis moves on to other issues.

Q: How big should government spending be as a proportion of national income? Roughly?
Miliband says the government promised prosperity. The economy works well for those at the top. But it is not delivering for the majority who are "really squeezed". We are in a double-dip recession and we need to change the way the economy works.Miliband says the government promised prosperity. The economy works well for those at the top. But it is not delivering for the majority who are "really squeezed". We are in a double-dip recession and we need to change the way the economy works.
Labour is showing how it would stand up to vested interests.Labour is showing how it would stand up to vested interests.
Miliband says he has taken a strong stand on executive pay.Miliband says he has taken a strong stand on executive pay.
Q: Would you be comfortable with a state representing 45% of national income? It's at about that figure at the moment.Q: Would you be comfortable with a state representing 45% of national income? It's at about that figure at the moment.
Miliband says the proportion of national income that the state takes relates to the extent to which your economy is growing. So "let's not pluck out of the air figures for this percentage or that". Labour has to show it is a party for tough times as well as easy times. The left has been losing elections around the world because people think parties of the right are the only ones that can take tough decisions in hard times. But Miliband says he does not agree.

Q: But your opponents would say this. Can you flesh out what is different about you?		Miliband says the proportion of national income that the state takes relates to the extent to which your economy is growing. So "let's not pluck out of the air figures for this percentage or that". Labour has to show it is a party for tough times as well as easy times. The left has been losing elections around the world because people think parties of the right are the only ones that can take tough decisions in hard times. But Miliband says he does not agree.

Q: But your opponents would say this. Can you flesh out what is different about you?
Miliband says Labour would not have cut the 50p top rate of tax.Miliband says Labour would not have cut the 50p top rate of tax.
Miliband says this is not just a technocratic argument about whether the 50p rate raises money. The right believe that if you cut taxes, wealth will trickle down. Miliband says he thinks that you have to allow those in the middle to create wealth.Miliband says this is not just a technocratic argument about whether the 50p rate raises money. The right believe that if you cut taxes, wealth will trickle down. Miliband says he thinks that you have to allow those in the middle to create wealth.
8.10am: Evan Davis is interviewing Ed Miliband. He's starting now.

Q: Lord Fowler said yesterday on the programme that politicians should not be invovled in media ownership decisions. Do you agree?		8.10am: Evan Davis is interviewing Ed Miliband. He's starting now.

Q: Lord Fowler said yesterday on the programme that politicians should not be invovled in media ownership decisions. Do you agree?
No, says Miliband. There is a public interest that politicians can represent. When Alistair Darling was in government, he had to take decisions about BSkyB and ITV. It is "incredible" that Jeremy Hunt has not resigned.No, says Miliband. There is a public interest that politicians can represent. When Alistair Darling was in government, he had to take decisions about BSkyB and ITV. It is "incredible" that Jeremy Hunt has not resigned.
Q: Labour also did favours for the Murdochs. The public won't be satisfied until there is complete separation.Q: Labour also did favours for the Murdochs. The public won't be satisfied until there is complete separation.
Miliband says Labour got too close to the Murdochs. But there is a world of difference between that, and the pattern of behaviour exposed at Leveson.Miliband says Labour got too close to the Murdochs. But there is a world of difference between that, and the pattern of behaviour exposed at Leveson.
Politicians have to make decisions about all kinds of issues. They should stand up to vested interest. That is what Labour is doing under his leadership, Miliband says.Politicians have to make decisions about all kinds of issues. They should stand up to vested interest. That is what Labour is doing under his leadership, Miliband says.
Why is Hunt still in his job, Miliband asks. Because David Cameron has questions to answer.Why is Hunt still in his job, Miliband asks. Because David Cameron has questions to answer.
This matters, because politicians should govern in the national interest.This matters, because politicians should govern in the national interest.
8.00am: Rupert Murdoch is back at the Leveson inquiry this morning. There's some excellent coverage of his appearance yesterday in the Guardian, but do start with this piece by Harold Evans.8.00am: Rupert Murdoch is back at the Leveson inquiry this morning. There's some excellent coverage of his appearance yesterday in the Guardian, but do start with this piece by Harold Evans.
Rupert Murdoch has apparently lost a great deal of his power of memory, but nature has compensated by endowing him with a vivid imagination. He can surely deploy his new gift in the service of Fox movies. There is the great scene he pitched to Lord Justice Leveson on Wednesday morning where the editor of the Times enters left, closes the door behind him and begs: "Look, tell me what you want to say, what do you want me to say, and it need not leave this room and I'll say it." And our hero proprietor, so famously fastidious about such matters, has to tell Uriah Heep: "That is not my job."Rupert Murdoch has apparently lost a great deal of his power of memory, but nature has compensated by endowing him with a vivid imagination. He can surely deploy his new gift in the service of Fox movies. There is the great scene he pitched to Lord Justice Leveson on Wednesday morning where the editor of the Times enters left, closes the door behind him and begs: "Look, tell me what you want to say, what do you want me to say, and it need not leave this room and I'll say it." And our hero proprietor, so famously fastidious about such matters, has to tell Uriah Heep: "That is not my job."
And thus, children, was how Mr KR Murdoch honoured the promises of editorial independence that enabled him to avoid the Monopolies and Mergers Commission over his bid for Times Newspapers in 1981. As the editor in question, I am not able to compete with Murdoch in fabrication – he has had a lifetime of experience – but I do happen to have retained my memory of the year editing the Times, made notes, kept documents and even had the effrontery to write a whole bestselling book about it in 1983, called Good Times, Bad Times.And thus, children, was how Mr KR Murdoch honoured the promises of editorial independence that enabled him to avoid the Monopolies and Mergers Commission over his bid for Times Newspapers in 1981. As the editor in question, I am not able to compete with Murdoch in fabrication – he has had a lifetime of experience – but I do happen to have retained my memory of the year editing the Times, made notes, kept documents and even had the effrontery to write a whole bestselling book about it in 1983, called Good Times, Bad Times.

We'll be covering today's hearing on a separate live blog, but I'll pick up some of the political reaction here.
We'll be covering today's hearing on a separate live blog, but I'll pick up some of the political reaction here.
First, though, we've got Ed Miliband being interviewed on the Today programme at 8.10am. After that, here's the agenda for the day.First, though, we've got Ed Miliband being interviewed on the Today programme at 8.10am. After that, here's the agenda for the day.
8.30am: David Cameron speaks at an international clean energy conference.

10am: Rupert Murdoch resumes giving evidence to the Leveson inquiry.		8.30am: David Cameron speaks at an international clean energy conference.

10am: Rupert Murdoch resumes giving evidence to the Leveson inquiry.
10am: Bakers are marching to Downing Street to protest about the "pasty tax".10am: Bakers are marching to Downing Street to protest about the "pasty tax".
10.15am: Jonathan Stephens, permanent secretary at the Department for Culture, gives evidence to public accounts committee. Labour MPs want to ask him about Jeremy Hunt and News Corporation.

10.15am: Nigel Farage launches Ukip's campaign for the local elections.		10.15am: Jonathan Stephens, permanent secretary at the Department for Culture, gives evidence to public accounts committee. Labour MPs want to ask him about Jeremy Hunt and News Corporation.

10.15am: Nigel Farage launches Ukip's campaign for the local elections.
As usual, I'll be covering all the breaking political news, as well as looking at the papers and bringing you the best politics from the web. I'll post a lunchtime summary before 12.30pm and another in the afternoon.As usual, I'll be covering all the breaking political news, as well as looking at the papers and bringing you the best politics from the web. I'll post a lunchtime summary before 12.30pm and another in the afternoon.
If you want to follow me on Twitter, I'm on @AndrewSparrow.If you want to follow me on Twitter, I'm on @AndrewSparrow.
And if you're a hardcore fan, you can follow @gdnpoliticslive. It's an automated feed that tweets the start of every new post that I put on the blog.And if you're a hardcore fan, you can follow @gdnpoliticslive. It's an automated feed that tweets the start of every new post that I put on the blog.