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Tony Blair at the Leveson inquiry - live Tony Blair at the Leveson inquiry - live
(40 minutes later)
1.38pm: Andrew Sparrow has posted part two of his "What have we learnt from Tony Blair so far?" roundup. You can find it here on his Politics Live blog.
1.35pm: We now have video of the anti-war protester at the Leveson inquiry:
1.25pm: Sky news has just tweeted:
42-year-old woman arrested by officers from Operation Weeting, the police investigation into the hacking of voicemail boxes
— Sky News Newsdesk (@SkyNewsBreak) May 28, 2012
1.20pm: Sky's Martin Brunt has just tweeted:
#leveson 49-year-old man arrested on suspicion of causing a breach of the peace after interrupting Tony Blair's evidence at Leveson inquiry
— martinbrunt (@skymartinbrunt) May 28, 2012
1.07pm: Here is a lunchtime summary of Blair's evidence so far:
• Tony Blair denied any deal with Rupert Murdoch during his 10 years as prime minister.
• Taking on the press would have led to an "absolute major confrontation" lasting years, Blair said.
• An anti-war protester breached court security to accuse Blair of war crimes.
• There was "nothing odd" about three phone calls to Rupert Murdoch days before Iraq war, Blair told the inquiry.
• Blair admitted sending a message of support to Rebekah Brooks after she resigned as News International boss at the height of the phone-hacking scandal in July 2011.
• Blair said his 1995 trip to a News Corp conference in Australia was a "very deliberate and strategic" bid to win over Murdoch.
1.07pm: The Daily Telegraph's Michael Deacon has just tweeted:
O/H outside courtroom, Robert Jay on Blair intruder: "That was a fucking disgrace, a fucking disgrace"
— Michael Deacon (@MichaelPDeacon) May 28, 2012
1.05pm: The Guardian's deputy editor, Ian Katz, has just tweeted:
Fascinating off air encounter between No 10 spokesman Craig Oliver and BBC's Norman Smith over Hunt coverage bit.ly/MSKJMv
— ian katz (@iankatz1000) May 28, 2012
and
And while we're on the subject of Craig Oliver, his text correspondence with NC's Fred Michel rewards a full read bit.ly/MSNahX
— ian katz (@iankatz1000) May 28, 2012
1.01pm: The inquiry has broken for lunch and will resume at 2pm.
1.01pm: Blair denies ever assuring any media group that his government would not change policy without seeking their permission.
1.00pm: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:
Blair lists 6 anti murdoch decs: eg manU, bbc dig channels + lic fee increases, creation of ofcom, listed events for sport, stopped itv buy
— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) May 28, 2012
12.58pm: Price described Murdoch as the 24th member of the Cabinet.12.58pm: Price described Murdoch as the 24th member of the Cabinet.
Blair says that European policy was the major debating point between him and Murdoch, but "I believed in what I was doing, I didn't need him or anyone else to tell me what to do".Blair says that European policy was the major debating point between him and Murdoch, but "I believed in what I was doing, I didn't need him or anyone else to tell me what to do".
A third of all objections from the Cabinet Office over Price's diaries related to references to Murdoch, Jay says.A third of all objections from the Cabinet Office over Price's diaries related to references to Murdoch, Jay says.
12.58pm: Blair is asked about Lance Price, the former Labour and No 10 press officer. Price has written extensively about implied deals between Murdoch and politicians.12.58pm: Blair is asked about Lance Price, the former Labour and No 10 press officer. Price has written extensively about implied deals between Murdoch and politicians.
"I don't know a policy that we changed as a result of Rupert Murdoch," says Blair."I don't know a policy that we changed as a result of Rupert Murdoch," says Blair.
12.53pm: Blair says the strongest lobbying from a media group during his 10-year premiership was from the BBC over the licence fee.12.53pm: Blair says the strongest lobbying from a media group during his 10-year premiership was from the BBC over the licence fee.
12.49pm: Jay asks about the 2003 Communications Act.12.49pm: Jay asks about the 2003 Communications Act.
Blair denies there was any "implied deal" with Murdoch.Blair denies there was any "implied deal" with Murdoch.
News Corporation lobbied for the removal the bar preventing anyone who owned more than 20% of the national newspaper market taking a stake in a major TV channel. It was ultimately removed in relation to Channel 5, but not ITV.News Corporation lobbied for the removal the bar preventing anyone who owned more than 20% of the national newspaper market taking a stake in a major TV channel. It was ultimately removed in relation to Channel 5, but not ITV.
Blair says he thought ITV would be a much more obvious target for News Corp than Channel 5 – therefore the law did not necessarily benefit Murdoch.Blair says he thought ITV would be a much more obvious target for News Corp than Channel 5 – therefore the law did not necessarily benefit Murdoch.
12.48pm: The Guardian's Roy Greenslade has just tweeted:12.48pm: The Guardian's Roy Greenslade has just tweeted:
#Leveson: Square this circle. Blair's last speech as PM - press are feral beasts. Then he becomes close pals with the biggest beast of all!#Leveson: Square this circle. Blair's last speech as PM - press are feral beasts. Then he becomes close pals with the biggest beast of all!
— Roy Greenslade (@GreensladeR) May 28, 2012— Roy Greenslade (@GreensladeR) May 28, 2012
12.47pm: Leveson says he has become "rather depressed" listening to Blair on the power of the press.12.47pm: Leveson says he has become "rather depressed" listening to Blair on the power of the press.
Does he think it is different? "Yes, I think it is," answers Blair.Does he think it is different? "Yes, I think it is," answers Blair.
He says David Cameron should not be left politically exposed to the recommendations proposed by the Leveson inquiry because now is the right time for change.He says David Cameron should not be left politically exposed to the recommendations proposed by the Leveson inquiry because now is the right time for change.
12.46pm: Blair is asked why he did not launch a review of the press in 2001, after he was voted back into office.12.46pm: Blair is asked why he did not launch a review of the press in 2001, after he was voted back into office.
He says there would never be a moment when tackling the press would not have swept other policy issues to the side.He says there would never be a moment when tackling the press would not have swept other policy issues to the side.
I never felt I could risk putting all that to one side to fight this. That's the political judgment you have to make.I never felt I could risk putting all that to one side to fight this. That's the political judgment you have to make.
I never felt that I could take a different strategic decision. It's only because of this, and because of what's happened, that a prime minister could and should.I never felt that I could take a different strategic decision. It's only because of this, and because of what's happened, that a prime minister could and should.
12.40pm: Blair confirms that he asked Murdoch outright in 2000 whether his newspapers were going to back Labour at the 2001 election.12.40pm: Blair confirms that he asked Murdoch outright in 2000 whether his newspapers were going to back Labour at the 2001 election.
I don't think there's anything wrong asking if they're going to support you or not. What's obviously wrong is if you're conditioning that in some way.I don't think there's anything wrong asking if they're going to support you or not. What's obviously wrong is if you're conditioning that in some way.
12.37pm: The PCC was the main lobbying group on behalf of newspapers on regulation, Blair says.12.37pm: The PCC was the main lobbying group on behalf of newspapers on regulation, Blair says.
Leveson, sounding exercised, says: "Well how do you feel about that?!"Leveson, sounding exercised, says: "Well how do you feel about that?!"
Blair says he believes the PCC felt it was defending its own position as custodian of press standards.Blair says he believes the PCC felt it was defending its own position as custodian of press standards.
12.37pm: Blair says dealing with media law had to be done "head on" and not through the Human Rights Act.12.37pm: Blair says dealing with media law had to be done "head on" and not through the Human Rights Act.
He believes it was right to come to a compromise over privacy law.He believes it was right to come to a compromise over privacy law.
12.36pm: The Guardian's Lisa O'Carroll has just tweeted:12.36pm: The Guardian's Lisa O'Carroll has just tweeted:
Anti war protester's name is David Lawley Wakelin from Alternative Iraq Enquiry. Has been taken by security into East block of High Court.Anti war protester's name is David Lawley Wakelin from Alternative Iraq Enquiry. Has been taken by security into East block of High Court.
— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) May 28, 2012— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) May 28, 2012
andand
Here's the background on Leveson protestor...presumably he's being held till police arrive at court. ideasfestival.co.uk/?p=559Here's the background on Leveson protestor...presumably he's being held till police arrive at court. ideasfestival.co.uk/?p=559
— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) May 28, 2012— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) May 28, 2012
12.34pm: Chennel 4 News has just tweeted:12.34pm: Chennel 4 News has just tweeted:
Video: intruder disrupts Tony #Blair evidence at #Leveson inquiry: bcove.me/67vh0d19 #c4newsVideo: intruder disrupts Tony #Blair evidence at #Leveson inquiry: bcove.me/67vh0d19 #c4news
— Channel 4 News (@Channel4News) May 28, 2012— Channel 4 News (@Channel4News) May 28, 2012
12.27pm: Jay asks about claims that Blair intervened with Italian prime minister Romano Prodi to back Murdoch's bid for the TV firm Mediaset in 1998.12.27pm: Jay asks about claims that Blair intervened with Italian prime minister Romano Prodi to back Murdoch's bid for the TV firm Mediaset in 1998.
He says he would have spoken to Prodi about any other media firm and all he was doing is finding out whether a foreign owner would be welcome.He says he would have spoken to Prodi about any other media firm and all he was doing is finding out whether a foreign owner would be welcome.
12.24pm: Blair said he believed in union reform – "it was an important part of New Labour" – and he did not back it to win support from Murdoch.12.24pm: Blair said he believed in union reform – "it was an important part of New Labour" – and he did not back it to win support from Murdoch.
He adds that he was growing up, the unions' argument was that they should not be subject to constraint, he says, but he later believed they should be subject to a legal framework.He adds that he was growing up, the unions' argument was that they should not be subject to constraint, he says, but he later believed they should be subject to a legal framework.
12.23pm: The Independent's Mary Ann Sieghart has just tweeted:12.23pm: The Independent's Mary Ann Sieghart has just tweeted:
Where's Wendi Deng when you need her? Bet Cherie has a good right hook too, actually #levesonWhere's Wendi Deng when you need her? Bet Cherie has a good right hook too, actually #leveson
— Mary Ann Sieghart (@MASieghart) May 28, 2012— Mary Ann Sieghart (@MASieghart) May 28, 2012
12.22pm: The Guardian's Esther Addley has just tweeted:12.22pm: The Guardian's Esther Addley has just tweeted:
#Leveson orders inquiry into how intruder - 40 sthg man, white shirt, chinos - gained entry#Leveson orders inquiry into how intruder - 40 sthg man, white shirt, chinos - gained entry
— esther addley (@estheraddley) May 28, 2012— esther addley (@estheraddley) May 28, 2012
12.20pm: Blair remained poised throughout the incident, even as the man gripped the judge's bench only metres away, accusing him of being a war criminal.12.20pm: Blair remained poised throughout the incident, even as the man gripped the judge's bench only metres away, accusing him of being a war criminal.
12.19pm: The Guardian's editor-in-chief, Alan Rusbridger, has just tweeted:12.19pm: The Guardian's editor-in-chief, Alan Rusbridger, has just tweeted:
"The man is a war criminal!" Shouting protestor (minus custard pie) breaks in to#leveson through secure corridor"The man is a war criminal!" Shouting protestor (minus custard pie) breaks in to#leveson through secure corridor
— alan rusbridger (@arusbridger) May 28, 2012— alan rusbridger (@arusbridger) May 28, 2012
12.18pm: Blair says he has never had a relationship with JP Morgan over the Iraq war as claimed by the protester.12.18pm: Blair says he has never had a relationship with JP Morgan over the Iraq war as claimed by the protester.
12.17pm: A member of the public interrupts the inquiry shouting "The man is a war criminal!".12.17pm: A member of the public interrupts the inquiry shouting "The man is a war criminal!".
He is forcibly removed after entering the inquiry courtroom through the non-public part of the Royal Court of Justice.He is forcibly removed after entering the inquiry courtroom through the non-public part of the Royal Court of Justice.
Leveson orders an immediate investigation into how the man was able to access the court.Leveson orders an immediate investigation into how the man was able to access the court.
12.16pm: Blair is asked about the circumstances of winning the News of the World's support.12.16pm: Blair is asked about the circumstances of winning the News of the World's support.
Alastair Campbell, his spokesman, received a call from the then NoW editor Phil Hall in March 1997 saying that there had been a "sea change" in then News International chief Les Hinton's view and that Murdoch would probably back New Labour at the next election.Alastair Campbell, his spokesman, received a call from the then NoW editor Phil Hall in March 1997 saying that there had been a "sea change" in then News International chief Les Hinton's view and that Murdoch would probably back New Labour at the next election.
Blair reiterates that he did not drop a cross-media ownership review to please Murdoch.Blair reiterates that he did not drop a cross-media ownership review to please Murdoch.
12.14pm: The Guardian's Lisa O'Carroll has just tweeted:12.14pm: The Guardian's Lisa O'Carroll has just tweeted:
Blair reiterates for third time he didn't dropcross med ownerhip review to please Murdoch. He other big plans for Labour in power #levesonBlair reiterates for third time he didn't dropcross med ownerhip review to please Murdoch. He other big plans for Labour in power #leveson
— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) May 28, 2012— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) May 28, 2012
12.09pm: Blair says he became closer to Brooks after he left office in 2007.12.09pm: Blair says he became closer to Brooks after he left office in 2007.
He confirms that he offered Brooks his support after she resigned as chief executive of News International in July last year, at the height of the phone-hacking scandal.He confirms that he offered Brooks his support after she resigned as chief executive of News International in July last year, at the height of the phone-hacking scandal.
I am someone who doesn't believe in being a fairweather friend and said I was sorry for what had happened to her.I am someone who doesn't believe in being a fairweather friend and said I was sorry for what had happened to her.
12.08pm: Jay turns again to Blair's meetings with Brooks. He describes his meetings with the former Sun editor as "about politics in a pretty general way".12.08pm: Jay turns again to Blair's meetings with Brooks. He describes his meetings with the former Sun editor as "about politics in a pretty general way".
Asked about the News of the World's campaign for a "Sarah's law" to name sex offenders, Blair says he was "pretty ambivalent" about it but cautious about campaigns based on witch-hunts.Asked about the News of the World's campaign for a "Sarah's law" to name sex offenders, Blair says he was "pretty ambivalent" about it but cautious about campaigns based on witch-hunts.
12.07pm: Blair believes now is the right time to conduct an inquiry into politics and the media because the advent of social media has fundamentally changed politics.12.07pm: Blair believes now is the right time to conduct an inquiry into politics and the media because the advent of social media has fundamentally changed politics.
12.05pm: Blair says that social media has meant that a growing wave of opinion has now reached a "tsunami" that can "wash governments away".12.05pm: Blair says that social media has meant that a growing wave of opinion has now reached a "tsunami" that can "wash governments away".
He adds:He adds:
Today this whole issue of managing the media is far more difficult and far more important … [because] it occurs in a way with an intensity that in the old days wouldn't have happened.Today this whole issue of managing the media is far more difficult and far more important … [because] it occurs in a way with an intensity that in the old days wouldn't have happened.
12.04pm: The Guardian's Roy Greenslade has just tweeted:12.04pm: The Guardian's Roy Greenslade has just tweeted:
Blair #Leveson: I never asked Rebekah Brooks to make attacks on anyone on my behalf. I hate that kind of politicsBlair #Leveson: I never asked Rebekah Brooks to make attacks on anyone on my behalf. I hate that kind of politics
— Roy Greenslade (@GreensladeR) May 28, 2012— Roy Greenslade (@GreensladeR) May 28, 2012
12.03pm: "Having regard to the media was a major factor but maybe it's always gonna be that," Blair says.12.03pm: "Having regard to the media was a major factor but maybe it's always gonna be that," Blair says.
12.02pm: What have we learned from Tony Blair's evidence so far? Andrew Sparrow has tried to sum it up on his Politics Live blog.12.02pm: What have we learned from Tony Blair's evidence so far? Andrew Sparrow has tried to sum it up on his Politics Live blog.
12.02pm: Blair says he was not so busy dealing with the media he could not focus on the issues of the day.12.02pm: Blair says he was not so busy dealing with the media he could not focus on the issues of the day.
11.59am: Most cabinet ministers will take the call from an editor of a major national newspaper and there is nothing wrong in that, Blair says. "You've just got to be careful between distinguishing between what is inevitable from what is wrong."11.59am: Most cabinet ministers will take the call from an editor of a major national newspaper and there is nothing wrong in that, Blair says. "You've just got to be careful between distinguishing between what is inevitable from what is wrong."
11.58am: Jay suggests that Brooks was powerful because she could conduct attacks on certain politicians.11.58am: Jay suggests that Brooks was powerful because she could conduct attacks on certain politicians.
Blair says:Blair says:
Let me just make one thing clear: I did never and would never have asked her or others to conduct attacks on specific individual ... I absolutely hate that type of politics.Let me just make one thing clear: I did never and would never have asked her or others to conduct attacks on specific individual ... I absolutely hate that type of politics.
11.57am: Jay asks if Rebekah Brooks exercised power.11.57am: Jay asks if Rebekah Brooks exercised power.
Blair says Brooks was important because she was editor of the Sun but there was "no doubt who was the key decision-maker", referring to Rupert Murdoch.Blair says Brooks was important because she was editor of the Sun but there was "no doubt who was the key decision-maker", referring to Rupert Murdoch.
11.56am: The relationship between prime ministers and proprietors are "about power" and not personal, Blair says.11.56am: The relationship between prime ministers and proprietors are "about power" and not personal, Blair says.
He repeats that he had a "working" relationship with Murdoch until 2007. "I would have never become godfather to one of the children on that basis."He repeats that he had a "working" relationship with Murdoch until 2007. "I would have never become godfather to one of the children on that basis."
11.55am: Blair says he had a "working relationship" with Murdoch until he left office, but "now it's different".11.55am: Blair says he had a "working relationship" with Murdoch until he left office, but "now it's different".
He adds that he developed a more friendly – and "healthier" – relationship with the media mogul after 2007, becoming the godfather to his daughter in 2010.He adds that he developed a more friendly – and "healthier" – relationship with the media mogul after 2007, becoming the godfather to his daughter in 2010.
11.52am: Labour did not change its core policies to suit the media, Blair says, but "managing these forces [newspapers] was a major part of what you had to do and was difficult".11.52am: Labour did not change its core policies to suit the media, Blair says, but "managing these forces [newspapers] was a major part of what you had to do and was difficult".
He adds:He adds:
He didn't lobby me on media stuff – the bulk of the conversation was about politics, and Europe was a large part of that … It was as good an insight as anyone I was talking at the time.He didn't lobby me on media stuff – the bulk of the conversation was about politics, and Europe was a large part of that … It was as good an insight as anyone I was talking at the time.
11.51am: Blair says that he did not fear the media, but all other issues would have been "pushed to the side" if he were to confront the industry.11.51am: Blair says that he did not fear the media, but all other issues would have been "pushed to the side" if he were to confront the industry.
11.49am: Blair says he used the Sun and News of the World as "a conduit" to voters ahead of the 1997 general election.11.49am: Blair says he used the Sun and News of the World as "a conduit" to voters ahead of the 1997 general election.
He says he was trying to get across policies that much of the press disagreed with, such as union recognition.He says he was trying to get across policies that much of the press disagreed with, such as union recognition.
11.47am: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:11.47am: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:
No Murdoch deal says Blair, implied or not, when it came to their media interests we more often decided against them.No Murdoch deal says Blair, implied or not, when it came to their media interests we more often decided against them.
— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) May 28, 2012— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) May 28, 2012
11.45am: Leveson puts it to Blair that the Hayman island trip was part of a "charm offensive".11.45am: Leveson puts it to Blair that the Hayman island trip was part of a "charm offensive".
Blair admits the trip was a "very deliberate and very strategic" attempt to win the support of Murdoch's titiles.Blair admits the trip was a "very deliberate and very strategic" attempt to win the support of Murdoch's titiles.
My minimum objective was to try stop them tearing us to pieces. My maximum objective was to try get their support.My minimum objective was to try stop them tearing us to pieces. My maximum objective was to try get their support.
He adds that it was "revolutionary" for Labour to be given a fair hearing by the Sun and Times in this period.He adds that it was "revolutionary" for Labour to be given a fair hearing by the Sun and Times in this period.
11.45am: Keating also apparently told Blair that you could do deals with Murdoch without saying a deal had been done.11.45am: Keating also apparently told Blair that you could do deals with Murdoch without saying a deal had been done.
Blair says:Blair says:
There was no deal on issues to do with the media ... and to be fair he never sought such a thing.There was no deal on issues to do with the media ... and to be fair he never sought such a thing.
He adds that he did not buy the strength of Keating's comments.He adds that he did not buy the strength of Keating's comments.
11.41am: Blair is asked about his 1995 trip to Murdoch's News Corp conference at Hayman Island in Australia. Paul Keating, the former prime minister of Australia, apparently told Blair:11.41am: Blair is asked about his 1995 trip to Murdoch's News Corp conference at Hayman Island in Australia. Paul Keating, the former prime minister of Australia, apparently told Blair:
He's a big bad bastard, and the only way you can deal with him is to make sure he thinks you can be a big bad bastard too. You can do deals with him, without ever saying a deal is done. But the only thing he cares about is his business and the only language he respects is strength.He's a big bad bastard, and the only way you can deal with him is to make sure he thinks you can be a big bad bastard too. You can do deals with him, without ever saying a deal is done. But the only thing he cares about is his business and the only language he respects is strength.
Blair says he "does not buy the crudeness" of this, but it sounds like something Keating would have said.Blair says he "does not buy the crudeness" of this, but it sounds like something Keating would have said.
11.34am: The inquiry has resumed and Jay returns to Chris Mullin's diaries and its account of a meeting with Blair in November 1994.11.34am: The inquiry has resumed and Jay returns to Chris Mullin's diaries and its account of a meeting with Blair in November 1994.
Blair is quoted as telling Mullin: "My absolutely priority is to win. I know it sounds unprincipled but I believe it's my role in life."Blair is quoted as telling Mullin: "My absolutely priority is to win. I know it sounds unprincipled but I believe it's my role in life."
Jay asks if Blair might have said that.Jay asks if Blair might have said that.
"Yep, sounds like something I would have said," replies Blair, to laughter in the press gallery."Yep, sounds like something I would have said," replies Blair, to laughter in the press gallery.
Blair says if the Sun had treat him as they did Neil Kinnock in 1992 he would have responded robustly.Blair says if the Sun had treat him as they did Neil Kinnock in 1992 he would have responded robustly.
11.3am: Here is a brief summary of Blair's evidence so far:11.3am: Here is a brief summary of Blair's evidence so far:
• Tony Blair said taking on the press as prime minister would have led to an "absolute major confrontation" lasting years.• Tony Blair said taking on the press as prime minister would have led to an "absolute major confrontation" lasting years.
• Blair attacked the Daily Mail for its "huge and sustained" criticism.• Blair attacked the Daily Mail for its "huge and sustained" criticism.
• He said there was "nothing odd" about three phone calls to Rupert Murdoch days before the Iraq war.• He said there was "nothing odd" about three phone calls to Rupert Murdoch days before the Iraq war.
11.32am: Paul Waugh of PoliticsHome has just tweeted:11.32am: Paul Waugh of PoliticsHome has just tweeted:
No.10 spkswoman says Cam won't be watching Blair at Leveson. "He's got a full day of meetings."No.10 spkswoman says Cam won't be watching Blair at Leveson. "He's got a full day of meetings."
— Paul Waugh (@paulwaugh) May 28, 2012— Paul Waugh (@paulwaugh) May 28, 2012
11.31am: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:11.31am: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:
Blair in control, generally skating over the hard questions, seems to be saying Rupert and I became friends, what's wrong w that.Blair in control, generally skating over the hard questions, seems to be saying Rupert and I became friends, what's wrong w that.
— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) May 28, 2012— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) May 28, 2012
11.27am: The Guardian's Esther Addley has just tweeted:11.27am: The Guardian's Esther Addley has just tweeted:
Short break at #Leveson. 'Morning!' Blair beams at pub gallery as he passes on way outShort break at #Leveson. 'Morning!' Blair beams at pub gallery as he passes on way out
— esther addley (@estheraddley) May 28, 2012— esther addley (@estheraddley) May 28, 2012
11.25am: The inquiry is now taking a short break.11.25am: The inquiry is now taking a short break.
11.24am: Leveson remarks on Blair's evidence that Murdoch appears to be in an "incredibly powerful position".11.24am: Leveson remarks on Blair's evidence that Murdoch appears to be in an "incredibly powerful position".
Blair agrees Murdoch does have a "substantial power", but it is not confined to his newspapers. "If you look at those main media blocs, of which Murdoch's are most powerful but others are powerful as well, yes you have to take that into account with your strategy."Blair agrees Murdoch does have a "substantial power", but it is not confined to his newspapers. "If you look at those main media blocs, of which Murdoch's are most powerful but others are powerful as well, yes you have to take that into account with your strategy."
Blair admits his government was guilty of ascribing too much power to the media.Blair admits his government was guilty of ascribing too much power to the media.
11.23am: Jay turns to former Labour MP Chris Mullin's diaries.11.23am: Jay turns to former Labour MP Chris Mullin's diaries.
Blair says Murdoch's personal political views are "equal first" to his apparent penchant for "backing the winner".Blair says Murdoch's personal political views are "equal first" to his apparent penchant for "backing the winner".
11.20am: By later in his premiership, Blair says, he had give up on the Mail, wasn't much in touch with the Express, and was in touch with the Guardian and Observer.11.20am: By later in his premiership, Blair says, he had give up on the Mail, wasn't much in touch with the Express, and was in touch with the Guardian and Observer.
Of News International, he says he tended to associate more with those who gave him a "fair shot at it".Of News International, he says he tended to associate more with those who gave him a "fair shot at it".
He describes other media groups as "a closed book to us".He describes other media groups as "a closed book to us".
11.16am: Dan Sabbagh continues:11.16am: Dan Sabbagh continues:
Blair had three calls w Murdoch on 11. 13 19 mar 2003 - run up to Iraq war, no more than 45 mins in total.Blair had three calls w Murdoch on 11. 13 19 mar 2003 - run up to Iraq war, no more than 45 mins in total.
— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) May 28, 2012— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) May 28, 2012
andand
Spoke to rog alton mar 8, conrad on mar 13, lunch w guardian on April 7Spoke to rog alton mar 8, conrad on mar 13, lunch w guardian on April 7
— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) May 28, 2012— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) May 28, 2012
11.14am: Blair is asked about the runup to the Iraq war in 2003.11.14am: Blair is asked about the runup to the Iraq war in 2003.
His three phone calls with Murdoch on 11, 13 and 19 March 2003 are listed. He has also listed phone calls and meetings with other newspaper editors and executives.His three phone calls with Murdoch on 11, 13 and 19 March 2003 are listed. He has also listed phone calls and meetings with other newspaper editors and executives.
Blair says he initiated one of the phone calls to Murdoch and that they are no more than 45 minutes in total.Blair says he initiated one of the phone calls to Murdoch and that they are no more than 45 minutes in total.
"I would have been wanting to explain what we are doing. I think I had similar calls with the Observer and the Telegraph," he says, adding: "I don't think there's anything particularly odd about that when you're facing such an issue.""I would have been wanting to explain what we are doing. I think I had similar calls with the Observer and the Telegraph," he says, adding: "I don't think there's anything particularly odd about that when you're facing such an issue."
He adds:He adds:
With him, probably, I would have been asking him what the situation was in the US and Australia, which were part of the coalition. But, no, I wouldn't have been asking him about press coverage.With him, probably, I would have been asking him what the situation was in the US and Australia, which were part of the coalition. But, no, I wouldn't have been asking him about press coverage.
11.14am: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:11.14am: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:
Met rupert Jun 1 97 - had met rothermere + david english on may 7 97, piers on may 12, Conrad black may 15, stu higgins May 19.Met rupert Jun 1 97 - had met rothermere + david english on may 7 97, piers on may 12, Conrad black may 15, stu higgins May 19.
— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) May 28, 2012— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) May 28, 2012
11.10am: Jay runs through Blair's meetings with media owners.11.10am: Jay runs through Blair's meetings with media owners.
Blair says about a third were with Murdoch papers, two thirds with other titles.Blair says about a third were with Murdoch papers, two thirds with other titles.
Jay describes Blair's meetings with media owners as "eclectic" in his first year in office. He stopped meeting Paul Dacre, editor-in-chief of the Daily Mail, in 2001, according to Cabinet Office documents seen by the inquiry. Blair says it became "pretty pointless" to meet Dacre and Daily Mail executives from this time.Jay describes Blair's meetings with media owners as "eclectic" in his first year in office. He stopped meeting Paul Dacre, editor-in-chief of the Daily Mail, in 2001, according to Cabinet Office documents seen by the inquiry. Blair says it became "pretty pointless" to meet Dacre and Daily Mail executives from this time.
11.08am: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:11.08am: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:
Blair says cross media ownership not the issue for media - issue were the "rules" under which media operated. His 1994 view + I think stillBlair says cross media ownership not the issue for media - issue were the "rules" under which media operated. His 1994 view + I think still
— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) May 28, 2012— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) May 28, 2012
11.07am: The Guardian's Lisa O'Carroll has just tweeted:11.07am: The Guardian's Lisa O'Carroll has just tweeted:
Blair : I didnt decide against not doing cross media ownership review to please Murdoch #LevesonBlair : I didnt decide against not doing cross media ownership review to please Murdoch #Leveson
— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) May 28, 2012— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) May 28, 2012
11.06am: Blair adds:11.06am: Blair adds:
The big issue they were generally worried about, and where they were lobbying very hard, was our commitment to trade union recognition, because we did introduce trade union recognition.The big issue they were generally worried about, and where they were lobbying very hard, was our commitment to trade union recognition, because we did introduce trade union recognition.
11.05am: Jay turns to cross-media ownership policy during Blair's premiership.11.05am: Jay turns to cross-media ownership policy during Blair's premiership.
Blair says he decided not to carry out a review into ownership policy because it would have been a "distraction" in his early time in office.Blair says he decided not to carry out a review into ownership policy because it would have been a "distraction" in his early time in office.
Ownership is not the issue, Blair says – rather, it is the way the media operates.Ownership is not the issue, Blair says – rather, it is the way the media operates.
11.01am: Jay asks if Blair got too close to Rebekah Brooks while he was in power.11.01am: Jay asks if Blair got too close to Rebekah Brooks while he was in power.
Blair says Brooks mattered because she was editor of the Sun at the time.Blair says Brooks mattered because she was editor of the Sun at the time.
He explains that towards the end of his tenure he needed all the friends he could get, but adds:He explains that towards the end of his tenure he needed all the friends he could get, but adds:
To put it bluntly, the decision-maker was not Rebekah Brooks in relation to this. It was Rupert Murdoch, for sure.To put it bluntly, the decision-maker was not Rebekah Brooks in relation to this. It was Rupert Murdoch, for sure.
11.00am: Blair is asked whether he added to the mystique around media moguls by inviting Murdoch to No 10 through the front door and not disclosing meetings.11.00am: Blair is asked whether he added to the mystique around media moguls by inviting Murdoch to No 10 through the front door and not disclosing meetings.
He says in future it would be better to publish everything about meetings.He says in future it would be better to publish everything about meetings.
10.57am: Broadcasters are very strongly influenced by the agendas of the press, Blair adds.10.57am: Broadcasters are very strongly influenced by the agendas of the press, Blair adds.
He says it would be "pretty strange" if political leaders did not have "reasonably strong" relationships with media owners.He says it would be "pretty strange" if political leaders did not have "reasonably strong" relationships with media owners.
10.56am: Sky News has just tweeted:10.56am: Sky News has just tweeted:
Baroness Warsi writes to Lords Standards Commissioner asking him to look into allegations surrounding her parliamentary expensesBaroness Warsi writes to Lords Standards Commissioner asking him to look into allegations surrounding her parliamentary expenses
— Sky News Newsdesk (@SkyNewsBreak) May 28, 2012— Sky News Newsdesk (@SkyNewsBreak) May 28, 2012
10.55am: The "big fight" against the press is something you have to take into account "before you go off in a particular direction," Blair tells the inquiry10.55am: The "big fight" against the press is something you have to take into account "before you go off in a particular direction," Blair tells the inquiry
10.54am: Blair is asked whether he got too close to News International.10.54am: Blair is asked whether he got too close to News International.
He says that after leaving office his relationship became "completely different with him [Murdoch] and his family now".He says that after leaving office his relationship became "completely different with him [Murdoch] and his family now".
In office, "you were in a position where you were dealing with very powerful people who had a big impact in the political system," he says, adding that if these people were against you they were "really out against you".In office, "you were in a position where you were dealing with very powerful people who had a big impact in the political system," he says, adding that if these people were against you they were "really out against you".
10.52am: Blair continues: "With any of these big media groups, if you fall out with them then watch out, because it is relentless."10.52am: Blair continues: "With any of these big media groups, if you fall out with them then watch out, because it is relentless."
He explains that the power of the press is why he decided to manage the media rather than confront it.He explains that the power of the press is why he decided to manage the media rather than confront it.
10.50am: Blair is asked about the Daily Mail.10.50am: Blair is asked about the Daily Mail.
"The Daily Mail is not a subject on which I would exercise much objectivity," he says. "They attacked me, my family and my children. They do it very well, very effectively.""The Daily Mail is not a subject on which I would exercise much objectivity," he says. "They attacked me, my family and my children. They do it very well, very effectively."
The fact is if you fall out with the controlling element of the Daily Mail you are then going to be subject to a huge and sustained attack.The fact is if you fall out with the controlling element of the Daily Mail you are then going to be subject to a huge and sustained attack.
10.49am: Blair contends that his government made more policy changes against – rather than for – the interests of the Murdoch stable.10.49am: Blair contends that his government made more policy changes against – rather than for – the interests of the Murdoch stable.
I didn't feel under pressure from commercial interests from the Murdoch press or from anybody else. The pressure for me was more political.I didn't feel under pressure from commercial interests from the Murdoch press or from anybody else. The pressure for me was more political.
10.47am: Rupert Murdoch is not an "identikit" rightwing person, Blair says.10.47am: Rupert Murdoch is not an "identikit" rightwing person, Blair says.
I wouldn't say he is a tribal Tory. He has bits of him that are meritocratic and anti-establishment, I would say.I wouldn't say he is a tribal Tory. He has bits of him that are meritocratic and anti-establishment, I would say.
10.45am: Blair is asked about the Sun. He describes the Sun and the Daily Mail as the two most powerful newspapers.10.45am: Blair is asked about the Sun. He describes the Sun and the Daily Mail as the two most powerful newspapers.
Asked about whether the Sun is more powerful as it is influential with floating voters, he agrees and says "it is willing to shift [its political support]".Asked about whether the Sun is more powerful as it is influential with floating voters, he agrees and says "it is willing to shift [its political support]".
10.45am: Blair says in his witness statement that proprietors use their newspapers as "instruments of political power". "This is not confined to the Murdoch media," he adds.10.45am: Blair says in his witness statement that proprietors use their newspapers as "instruments of political power". "This is not confined to the Murdoch media," he adds.
Blair believes "the bulk of the tabloid press" writes in a way that if they oppose a specific politician or opposition they will let that be known "in a pretty all-out way".Blair believes "the bulk of the tabloid press" writes in a way that if they oppose a specific politician or opposition they will let that be known "in a pretty all-out way".
10.42am: Blair says the Times is "basically Eurosceptic" but "reports Europe fairly".10.42am: Blair says the Times is "basically Eurosceptic" but "reports Europe fairly".
10.38am: Blair says the "misdescriptions" of European policy "wasn't straight reporting".10.38am: Blair says the "misdescriptions" of European policy "wasn't straight reporting".
He clarifies that he is not suggesting newspapers cannot be partisan, but believes it becomes difficult when "facts in the story will get slanted in a certain way".He clarifies that he is not suggesting newspapers cannot be partisan, but believes it becomes difficult when "facts in the story will get slanted in a certain way".
10.37am: Blair is asked about the press and democratic accountability. He says there is no reason why newspapers should not be partisan.10.37am: Blair is asked about the press and democratic accountability. He says there is no reason why newspapers should not be partisan.
"My distinction is between that and how you actually report the story as a piece of journalism," he adds."My distinction is between that and how you actually report the story as a piece of journalism," he adds.
10.37am: Blair says the response by newspapers in leader columns following his speech underlines his point that it would have been very difficult to take on the press two years into his premiership.10.37am: Blair says the response by newspapers in leader columns following his speech underlines his point that it would have been very difficult to take on the press two years into his premiership.
10.35am: Jay reads from a Guardian editorial of 13 June 2007 titled "Right sermon, wrong preacher":10.35am: Jay reads from a Guardian editorial of 13 June 2007 titled "Right sermon, wrong preacher":
There is an easy response to Tony Blair's lecture on the failings of the media, and some will seize on it. It is to accuse the prime minister - the master (some will say) of half truths, evasion and spin - of breathtaking hypocrisy and an almost clinical lack of self-awareness. Well, yes. But Mr Blair's heartfelt homily deserves a more serious response. His words will have struck a sympathetic chord, not simply among people in public life, frustrated at the way their words and deeds are mediated, but among a broad section of readers and viewers as well. Much of what he said was true, and it took some courage to say it, a courage that was doubtless easier to draw on amid the last embers of a political career.There is an easy response to Tony Blair's lecture on the failings of the media, and some will seize on it. It is to accuse the prime minister - the master (some will say) of half truths, evasion and spin - of breathtaking hypocrisy and an almost clinical lack of self-awareness. Well, yes. But Mr Blair's heartfelt homily deserves a more serious response. His words will have struck a sympathetic chord, not simply among people in public life, frustrated at the way their words and deeds are mediated, but among a broad section of readers and viewers as well. Much of what he said was true, and it took some courage to say it, a courage that was doubtless easier to draw on amid the last embers of a political career.
Mr Blair was right that journalism today is being dramatically challenged and changed as it has seldom been before - by the combination of a rapid technological revolution and aggressive economic competition from multiple new entrants. The world is speeding up. Old media companies are merging and converging as young media companies and audiences are fragmenting. He is right to highlight some of the worst qualities of some British journalism: a seam of sourness and aggression; a bullying, puffed up self-regard; a casualness about the borders between public and private; an obsession with impact over proportionality. All those are there on a daily basis for anyone to see. He is right that some journalists are more interested in influence than in reporting. He is right to point to the dangers of investing in, and promoting, views over news - though picking on the smallest boy in the playground, the Independent, was perhaps not the bravest moment in his speech. It is rare for anyone in public life to voice these kinds of truths about journalists - not least because (see all of the above) they rightly fear the consequences. That does not mean it is not worth saying.Mr Blair was right that journalism today is being dramatically challenged and changed as it has seldom been before - by the combination of a rapid technological revolution and aggressive economic competition from multiple new entrants. The world is speeding up. Old media companies are merging and converging as young media companies and audiences are fragmenting. He is right to highlight some of the worst qualities of some British journalism: a seam of sourness and aggression; a bullying, puffed up self-regard; a casualness about the borders between public and private; an obsession with impact over proportionality. All those are there on a daily basis for anyone to see. He is right that some journalists are more interested in influence than in reporting. He is right to point to the dangers of investing in, and promoting, views over news - though picking on the smallest boy in the playground, the Independent, was perhaps not the bravest moment in his speech. It is rare for anyone in public life to voice these kinds of truths about journalists - not least because (see all of the above) they rightly fear the consequences. That does not mean it is not worth saying.
It also does not mean that Mr Blair has not got important things wrong, including missing some crucial parts of the overall picture. A speech about the British media which does not pay tribute to its strengths falls into the very trap - of painting the world in black and white - which is part of the prime minister's own charge sheet. The BBC is still the best journalistic organisation in the world. The online offerings of a handful of national papers are as rich and inventive as anything in the world. There is something about the polemical, argumentative, obstinate traditions of the British national press which grinds out a form of truth every bit as effectively as the supposedly more "objective" newspapers found in mainland Europe and North America. Mr Blair was largely dismissive of the democratising, diversifying potential of new media, preferring to emphasise its downside.It also does not mean that Mr Blair has not got important things wrong, including missing some crucial parts of the overall picture. A speech about the British media which does not pay tribute to its strengths falls into the very trap - of painting the world in black and white - which is part of the prime minister's own charge sheet. The BBC is still the best journalistic organisation in the world. The online offerings of a handful of national papers are as rich and inventive as anything in the world. There is something about the polemical, argumentative, obstinate traditions of the British national press which grinds out a form of truth every bit as effectively as the supposedly more "objective" newspapers found in mainland Europe and North America. Mr Blair was largely dismissive of the democratising, diversifying potential of new media, preferring to emphasise its downside.
In some parts of his critique Mr Blair was leading with his chin. Yes, newspapers report Westminster debates less than they once did. But it is pretty rich to be lectured on such matters by this prime minister who, more than any other, has marginalised parliament through a combination of sofa government, selective leaking and sophisticated media manipulation. His "complicity" in such methods was not simply - as he implied - a feature of early New Labour. It has been a consistent pattern - witness recent terror briefings to the Sunday papers. Truly, he helped feed the animal he now wants to chain.In some parts of his critique Mr Blair was leading with his chin. Yes, newspapers report Westminster debates less than they once did. But it is pretty rich to be lectured on such matters by this prime minister who, more than any other, has marginalised parliament through a combination of sofa government, selective leaking and sophisticated media manipulation. His "complicity" in such methods was not simply - as he implied - a feature of early New Labour. It has been a consistent pattern - witness recent terror briefings to the Sunday papers. Truly, he helped feed the animal he now wants to chain.
Not quite chain, it is true. Mr Blair ended by trailing hints about a changing regulatory framework which might encompass all media as technologies increasingly blur distinctions between print, online and broadcasters. It is a reasonable issue to raise, but we hope nothing will ever come of any attempts to place the press under any kind of statutory regulation. The British press is all the things Mr Blair says it is. But it must remain free to be both awful and, on its day, magnificent.Not quite chain, it is true. Mr Blair ended by trailing hints about a changing regulatory framework which might encompass all media as technologies increasingly blur distinctions between print, online and broadcasters. It is a reasonable issue to raise, but we hope nothing will ever come of any attempts to place the press under any kind of statutory regulation. The British press is all the things Mr Blair says it is. But it must remain free to be both awful and, on its day, magnificent.
10.33am: Blair says the description by the Daily Mail of the press as a "big sloppy labrador" rather than a "feral beast" is one that he does not recognise, to laughter in court.10.33am: Blair says the description by the Daily Mail of the press as a "big sloppy labrador" rather than a "feral beast" is one that he does not recognise, to laughter in court.
10.32am: The Guardian's Esther Addley has just tweeted:10.32am: The Guardian's Esther Addley has just tweeted:
Blair seems v defensive about his legacy. Keeps spinning off qs about the press to stress what he achieved as PM #LevesonBlair seems v defensive about his legacy. Keeps spinning off qs about the press to stress what he achieved as PM #Leveson
— esther addley (@estheraddley) May 28, 2012— esther addley (@estheraddley) May 28, 2012
10.32am: The Daily Telegraph criticised Blair following the speech as a "religiose" figure who wished for a statutory body to oversee the press.10.32am: The Daily Telegraph criticised Blair following the speech as a "religiose" figure who wished for a statutory body to oversee the press.
Blair tells the inquiry he believes Ofcom, the statutory media regulator, is the right organisation to oversee media policy but does not see it replacing the Press Complaints Commission.Blair tells the inquiry he believes Ofcom, the statutory media regulator, is the right organisation to oversee media policy but does not see it replacing the Press Complaints Commission.
10.31am: Blair is asked why he singled out the Independent for criticism in his "feral beasts" speech in 2007.10.31am: Blair is asked why he singled out the Independent for criticism in his "feral beasts" speech in 2007.
He says the Independent was launched as a brand that would separate comment and news, but that its then editor referred to it as a "Viewspaper".He says the Independent was launched as a brand that would separate comment and news, but that its then editor referred to it as a "Viewspaper".
Blair believes this was "indicative" of the damaging blurring of comment and news.Blair believes this was "indicative" of the damaging blurring of comment and news.
10.26am: Blair complains about the crossover of comment and news in newspapers.10.26am: Blair complains about the crossover of comment and news in newspapers.
He says that this "stops being journalism. It's then an instrument of propaganda or political power".He says that this "stops being journalism. It's then an instrument of propaganda or political power".
10.24am: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:10.24am: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:
Blair, still electioneering, slows down, all hand gestures, when he says he took a "strategic decision" not to take on media.Blair, still electioneering, slows down, all hand gestures, when he says he took a "strategic decision" not to take on media.
— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) May 28, 2012— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) May 28, 2012
10.23am: Blair says "you certainly do feel the power being directed at you" by hostile parts of the press.10.23am: Blair says "you certainly do feel the power being directed at you" by hostile parts of the press.
He explains that he decided not to tackle the power of the press because it was not top on the list of his priorities.He explains that he decided not to tackle the power of the press because it was not top on the list of his priorities.
My view, rightly or wrongly, was that if in those circumstances I said I'm going to take on the media ... my view is that you would have had to clear the decks. This would have been an absolute major confrontation and you would have virtually every corner of the media against you. The price you would pay for that would push out the things I cared more about.My view, rightly or wrongly, was that if in those circumstances I said I'm going to take on the media ... my view is that you would have had to clear the decks. This would have been an absolute major confrontation and you would have virtually every corner of the media against you. The price you would pay for that would push out the things I cared more about.
He adds that he was not afraid of taking on the press but he knew "do not think for a second you are not in a long protracted battle".He adds that he was not afraid of taking on the press but he knew "do not think for a second you are not in a long protracted battle".
10.21am: New Labour was still in the rhythm of opposition and campaigning in 1997, Blair says.10.21am: New Labour was still in the rhythm of opposition and campaigning in 1997, Blair says.
He believes it is important for governments to have a "really strong media operation".He believes it is important for governments to have a "really strong media operation".
My advice to any political leader is that you've got to have a very, very solid media operation.My advice to any political leader is that you've got to have a very, very solid media operation.
10.18am: Here's how the Guardian's Patrick Wintour reported Blair's June 2007 "feral beast" speech:10.18am: Here's how the Guardian's Patrick Wintour reported Blair's June 2007 "feral beast" speech:
In a sweeping critique of the industry, Mr Blair claimed newspapers, locked into an increasingly bitter sales war in a 24-hour news environment, indulged in "impact journalism" in which truth and balance had become secondary to the desire for stories to boost sales and be taken up by other media outlets.In a sweeping critique of the industry, Mr Blair claimed newspapers, locked into an increasingly bitter sales war in a 24-hour news environment, indulged in "impact journalism" in which truth and balance had become secondary to the desire for stories to boost sales and be taken up by other media outlets.
He admitted that his own attempts to bypass traditional media through websites and press conferences had been "to no avail". He also conceded that he was partly to blame for the predicament, saying his determination to convey the Labour message in the period of opposition and early years in government had made him complicit in the decline in news standards.He admitted that his own attempts to bypass traditional media through websites and press conferences had been "to no avail". He also conceded that he was partly to blame for the predicament, saying his determination to convey the Labour message in the period of opposition and early years in government had made him complicit in the decline in news standards.
But he said the fierce competition for stories had led to the media now hunting in a pack. "In these modes it is like a feral beast, just tearing people and reputations to bits, but no one dares miss out."But he said the fierce competition for stories had led to the media now hunting in a pack. "In these modes it is like a feral beast, just tearing people and reputations to bits, but no one dares miss out."
He added that distinctions between comment and news had become so blurred that it was rare to find newspapers reporting precisely what a politician was saying. It was incredibly frustrating, he said, adding that politicians had to act immediately to rebut false charges before they became fact.He added that distinctions between comment and news had become so blurred that it was rare to find newspapers reporting precisely what a politician was saying. It was incredibly frustrating, he said, adding that politicians had to act immediately to rebut false charges before they became fact.
Mr Blair said he was describing "something few people in public life will say, but most know is absolutely true: a vast aspect of our jobs today - outside of the really major decisions, as big as anything else - is coping with the media, its sheer scale, weight and constant hyperactivity. At points, it literally overwhelms."Mr Blair said he was describing "something few people in public life will say, but most know is absolutely true: a vast aspect of our jobs today - outside of the really major decisions, as big as anything else - is coping with the media, its sheer scale, weight and constant hyperactivity. At points, it literally overwhelms."
The damage that can be done "saps the country's confidence and self-belief", he said. "It undermines its assessment of itself, its institutions and above all, it reduces our capacity to take the right decisions, in the right spirit for our future."The damage that can be done "saps the country's confidence and self-belief", he said. "It undermines its assessment of itself, its institutions and above all, it reduces our capacity to take the right decisions, in the right spirit for our future."
You can read the full article here, and the full text of the speech here.You can read the full article here, and the full text of the speech here.
10.17am: Robert Jay QC, lead counsel to the inquiry, asks Blair about his "feral beast" speech on the media in 2007, shortly before he left office.10.17am: Robert Jay QC, lead counsel to the inquiry, asks Blair about his "feral beast" speech on the media in 2007, shortly before he left office.
10.17am: Blair disputes the notion of spin as ubilically attached to his New Labour government.10.17am: Blair disputes the notion of spin as ubilically attached to his New Labour government.
He refers to the 1992 election and the Sun's "It was us wot won it" front page, saying: "I was absolutely determined that we should not be subject to the same onslaught."He refers to the 1992 election and the Sun's "It was us wot won it" front page, saying: "I was absolutely determined that we should not be subject to the same onslaught."
10.13am: Political leaders have to "manage these major forces in the media" because the consequences are "harsh" if you fall out with them, Blair says.10.13am: Political leaders have to "manage these major forces in the media" because the consequences are "harsh" if you fall out with them, Blair says.
"The responsibility mainly is having not confronted this," he adds."The responsibility mainly is having not confronted this," he adds.
10.12am: Falling out of favour with a media group as leader of a political party "means that you then are effectively blocked from getting across your message", Blair tells the inquiry.10.12am: Falling out of favour with a media group as leader of a political party "means that you then are effectively blocked from getting across your message", Blair tells the inquiry.
He adds:He adds:
Frankly, I decided as a political leader that I was going to manage that and not confront it.Frankly, I decided as a political leader that I was going to manage that and not confront it.
Blair says he wants to submit further written proposals on the future of press regulation.Blair says he wants to submit further written proposals on the future of press regulation.
10.07am: Blair begins by explaining that the relationship between politicians and media executives is inevitably close and will "inevitably involve tension".10.07am: Blair begins by explaining that the relationship between politicians and media executives is inevitably close and will "inevitably involve tension".
British journalism at its best is the best in the world, he says, adding that he will discuss the "unhealthy" aspects of the relationship between press and politicians. It has become "essential and crucial" to have close ties with the media, he adds.British journalism at its best is the best in the world, he says, adding that he will discuss the "unhealthy" aspects of the relationship between press and politicians. It has become "essential and crucial" to have close ties with the media, he adds.
10.04am: The inquiry has begun as Tony Blair is sworn in.10.04am: The inquiry has begun as Tony Blair is sworn in.
Robert Jay QC, counsel to the inquiry, is leading the questioning.Robert Jay QC, counsel to the inquiry, is leading the questioning.
10.02am: The Guardian's Esther Addely has just tweeted:10.02am: The Guardian's Esther Addely has just tweeted:
Public gallery full for #Blair at #Leveson, including burly chap with curly wire earpiece. No sign in court yetPublic gallery full for #Blair at #Leveson, including burly chap with curly wire earpiece. No sign in court yet
— esther addley (@estheraddley) May 28, 2012— esther addley (@estheraddley) May 28, 2012
andand
Am told Blair used private side entrance rather than pass snappers. OH photographer: 'He invaded Iraq, he'll use any door he likes'Am told Blair used private side entrance rather than pass snappers. OH photographer: 'He invaded Iraq, he'll use any door he likes'
— esther addley (@estheraddley) May 28, 2012— esther addley (@estheraddley) May 28, 2012
andand
Blair has arrived in court. Blue suit, tan, big smile #LevesonBlair has arrived in court. Blue suit, tan, big smile #Leveson
— esther addley (@estheraddley) May 28, 2012— esther addley (@estheraddley) May 28, 2012
9.56am: Lance Price was on Radio 4's Today programme this morning, when he again suggested that there had been an implied deal between Blair and Murdoch.9.56am: Lance Price was on Radio 4's Today programme this morning, when he again suggested that there had been an implied deal between Blair and Murdoch.
"We wanted every headline to be favourable to him [Tony Blair]," he said. "There was nothing that we weren't prepared to do.""We wanted every headline to be favourable to him [Tony Blair]," he said. "There was nothing that we weren't prepared to do."
He said Murdoch's influence had been one factor in the decision not to join euro.He said Murdoch's influence had been one factor in the decision not to join euro.
Asked if he felt that Blair regretted his focus on the media, Price said that towards the end of his term Blair became increasingly disenchanted with the press, citing the famous 2007 "feral beast" speech.Asked if he felt that Blair regretted his focus on the media, Price said that towards the end of his term Blair became increasingly disenchanted with the press, citing the famous 2007 "feral beast" speech.
9.45am: Good morning and welcome to the Leveson inquiry live blog.9.45am: Good morning and welcome to the Leveson inquiry live blog.
Tony Blair becomes the first former prime minister to give evidence to the inquiry today, with nearly seven hours set aside for the ex-Labour leader to face questions.Tony Blair becomes the first former prime minister to give evidence to the inquiry today, with nearly seven hours set aside for the ex-Labour leader to face questions.
Blair will be quizzed on his ties with Rupert Murdoch and whether he struck an implied deal with the media mogul for the support of his newspapers.Blair will be quizzed on his ties with Rupert Murdoch and whether he struck an implied deal with the media mogul for the support of his newspapers.
Blair, who was prime minister from 1997 to 2007, is likely to be asked about being named as godfather to Murdoch's daughter Grace. It was revealed last year that Blair attended the baptism of Murdoch's daughter on the banks of the Jordan in 2010.Blair, who was prime minister from 1997 to 2007, is likely to be asked about being named as godfather to Murdoch's daughter Grace. It was revealed last year that Blair attended the baptism of Murdoch's daughter on the banks of the Jordan in 2010.
He is also expected to be asked about his conversations with Murdoch in the runup to the Iraq war in 2003. Blair had three phone calls with the News Corporation boss in the days before the conflict, which each of Murdoch's 175 newspapers including the Sun, the Times and News of the World supported. Alastair Campbell, the former No 10 spin doctor, told the inquiry that he could not recall the content of the phone calls, but said it was "complete nonsense" that Blair needed Murdoch's support for his policy in Iraq.He is also expected to be asked about his conversations with Murdoch in the runup to the Iraq war in 2003. Blair had three phone calls with the News Corporation boss in the days before the conflict, which each of Murdoch's 175 newspapers including the Sun, the Times and News of the World supported. Alastair Campbell, the former No 10 spin doctor, told the inquiry that he could not recall the content of the phone calls, but said it was "complete nonsense" that Blair needed Murdoch's support for his policy in Iraq.
Blair is also expected to be asked about his trip to a News Corporation conference in Australia in 1995, after he became leader of the opposition. His former aide, Lance Price, wrote in his book Where Power Lies about the trip: "A deal had been done, although with nothing in writing. If Murdoch were left to pursue his business interests in peace he would give Labour a fair wind."Blair is also expected to be asked about his trip to a News Corporation conference in Australia in 1995, after he became leader of the opposition. His former aide, Lance Price, wrote in his book Where Power Lies about the trip: "A deal had been done, although with nothing in writing. If Murdoch were left to pursue his business interests in peace he would give Labour a fair wind."
The inquiry begins at 10am.The inquiry begins at 10am.