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Leveson inquiry: Ed Miliband, Harriet Harman, Sir John Major - live Leveson inquiry: Ed Miliband, Harriet Harman, Sir John Major - live
(40 minutes later)
4.28pm: Here is a brief summary of evidence to the Leveson inquiry today:
• Ed Miliband called for Rupert Murdoch to be forced to sell either the Sun or the Times.
• Sir John Major said Murdoch asked him to change government policy on Europe in 1997.
• Murdoch told Major in 1997 "I would like you to change your policy and if you don't change your policy my organisation cannot support you", inquiry heard.
• Miliband called for statutory recognition of new press regulator.
• Speaking out about phone hacking felt "like crossing the Rubicon" and would be seen by News International as an "act of war", Miliband told inquiry.
• Not speaking out about hacking sooner was a "failure of the establishment", Miliband said.
• In a letter to No 10 seen by the inquiry, Major accused Gordon Brown's special advisers of lying about him "for party political advantage".
• Miliband stood by Tom Baldwin email urging Labour MPs not to link phone hacking and News Corp's BSkyB bid in January 2011.
• Major denied Kelvin MacKenzie threatened to pour a "bucketfull of shit" in now-famous Black Wednesday phone call.
• Major said he was "much too sensitive" about press coverage of him during his seven-year premiership.
• Major urged cross-party support for recommendations of the Leveson inquiry, and said proprietors should ultimately be held responsible for their newspapers.
• Shadow culture secretary Harriet Harman said there was too great a concentration of media ownership in the UK.
4.22pm: Harman has now completed her evidence.
4.20pm: "I really do feel this is a real moment of opportunity. All of us in parliament, and those in the press, have got to make sure we live up to that opportunity," says Harman.
4.19pm: Harman is asked for her proposals on the future of media ownership. She says that newspapers still have great influence despite their declining readership.
She urges the inquiry to examine and make recommendations of media ownership.
4.17pm: Harman acknowledges that statory recognition of this regulator ought to be done with care, saying she sympathises with concerns that the government will be allowed to interfere if the legal powers are too great.
4.10pm: Harman says that current proposals for a reconstituted regulator do not deal with people who do not wish to join, which she says is "not good enough".
"It does need to have some statutory empowerment and statutory recognition," she adds.
4.08pm: Jay asks if there is an emerging consensus between editors about what they want. She says there is more of a sense about what they do not want, rather than what they do.
Harman uses the term "statutory recognition" for a new system.
4.02pm: Harman says she has been speaking to national newspaper editors to encourage them to "circle the wagons" around a set of proposals for reform that they can all agree on.
3.57pm: Harman says the inquiry presents the opportunity for politicians to step back and examine the "immediate turbulence" that has come to light since July last year.
3.56pm: Harriet Harman, the deputy Labour leader and shadow culture secretary, takes the witness stand.
3.55pm: John Plunkett has just sent this extract from Miliband witness statement on his meeting with Brooks on 21 December 2010:
As for Rebekah Brooks I had brief discussions with her at both the party conference reception and the News Corporation reception.
She also requested through my office that she speak to me on the evening that Vince Cable was stripped of responsibility for the BSkyB bid, we had a short conversation. I said we were in favour of a fair process.
The following day the Labour party took the position that Jeremy Hunt was not an appropriate person to be in charge of the bid given his past statements in support of News Corporation. This is the sum total of my contacts with Rebekah Brooks.
As is clear from this account I have not had a close relationship withNews International since being Labour leader. Clearly when I spoke out in July 2011 over phone hacking the relationship with News International as an organisation deteriorated further. They were not happy with the stance I took.
3.53pm: Miliband has now completed his evidence.
3.52pm: Lisa O'Carroll has the full transcript of Milliband's unexpected call for Murdoch to divest himself of some of his newspaper titles.
He told Leveson he believed that it was wrong for "one organisation to
exercise overweening power" and that laws needed to be reformed to
reduce his share of the market from 34% to about 20%.
I don't believe that one person should continue to control 37%, or it's now 34% post the Sun on Sunday, 34% of the newspaper market.
My strong instinct is that's too much and, I would like to see, I
submit that I would like to see the inquiry looking at the question of
whether we should have lower limits. There's a question of about where
these limits should be set. I should say we should have no worries of
someone owning up to 20% of the newspaper market. I think there is
then a question of between 20% to 30% where you should set a limit.
That's where I'm coming from. I think it's good for our democracy to
have plurality in the market.
Opening a new front in the battle to reform the press, Milliband also
said he wanted to review the UK's cross-media ownership rules.
I think then there's a secondary issue about what we do about cross
media ownership and I think there, to sort of paraphrase a well worn
phrase, I think when we look at the communications act of 2003, it now
looks like a sort of analogue act in a digital age, and I think it
will therefore need to be updated anyway, and I think there's then a
question about whether you should have an overall limit about how much
control one organisation has on the market.
My aim in this, I want to be very clear about this, my aim is not to
stifle one particular organisation or another.
My aim is plurality and a sense that, there is a sort of, that one
organisation does not exercise overweening power.
3.49pm: Leveson says: "I got several terms of reference that grew like a mushroom cloud."
Miliband replies: "I was responsible."
Leveson says: "I'm sure you were!"
3.44pm: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:3.44pm: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:
EdMill also calls for statutory recognition of a reformed PCC. Big developments right now.EdMill also calls for statutory recognition of a reformed PCC. Big developments right now.
— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) June 12, 2012— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) June 12, 2012
3.44pm: Leveson says he is reluctant to make a ruling or opine on a media group's market share.3.44pm: Leveson says he is reluctant to make a ruling or opine on a media group's market share.
3.40pm: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:3.40pm: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:
EdMill says Murdoch's 34pc share is too high + that 2O-30pc is fairer. Implies sale of a NewsInt paper; break up of NewsInt.EdMill says Murdoch's 34pc share is too high + that 2O-30pc is fairer. Implies sale of a NewsInt paper; break up of NewsInt.
— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) June 12, 2012— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) June 12, 2012
3.38pm: Miliband says he would like Leveson to look into limits on newspaper ownership.3.38pm: Miliband says he would like Leveson to look into limits on newspaper ownership.
He says 20% of the market is fine; more than 30% is worrying.He says 20% of the market is fine; more than 30% is worrying.
He adds that "plurality" is his aim and he believes that News International's ownership of 34% of the newspaper market is "too much".He adds that "plurality" is his aim and he believes that News International's ownership of 34% of the newspaper market is "too much".
"It's good for our democracy to have plurality in the market," he adds."It's good for our democracy to have plurality in the market," he adds.
He says cross-media ownership rules should also be updated.He says cross-media ownership rules should also be updated.
3.32pm: Miliband is asked for his thoughts on the future of press regulation. He describes the PCC chairman Lord Hunt's proposals as admirable, but questions their independence. Miliband says he is not for "statutory regulation of content".3.32pm: Miliband is asked for his thoughts on the future of press regulation. He describes the PCC chairman Lord Hunt's proposals as admirable, but questions their independence. Miliband says he is not for "statutory regulation of content".
He proposes an independent body that has constitutional safeguards for the freedom of the press.He proposes an independent body that has constitutional safeguards for the freedom of the press.
3.31pm: The inquiry hears that Rebekah Brooks telephoned Miliband on 21 December 2010, on the evening that Cable was stripped of the authority for the BSkyB bid.3.31pm: The inquiry hears that Rebekah Brooks telephoned Miliband on 21 December 2010, on the evening that Cable was stripped of the authority for the BSkyB bid.
She was "very annoyed" about Cable's remarks, Miliband says, but he adds there was "not much purpose to the call".She was "very annoyed" about Cable's remarks, Miliband says, but he adds there was "not much purpose to the call".
3.28pm: Jay reopens the inquiry by confirming he is head of chambers at the law firm where Miliband's wife works. However, he says he has not met Miliband outside the circumstances of this inquiry.3.28pm: Jay reopens the inquiry by confirming he is head of chambers at the law firm where Miliband's wife works. However, he says he has not met Miliband outside the circumstances of this inquiry.
This appears to be in response to a Guido Fawkes blogpost published earlier this afternoon.This appears to be in response to a Guido Fawkes blogpost published earlier this afternoon.
3.16pm: Here is a brief summary of Ed Miliband's evidence to the Leveson inquiry:3.16pm: Here is a brief summary of Ed Miliband's evidence to the Leveson inquiry:
• Miliband said speaking out about phone hacking in July 2011 felt "like crossing the Rubicon".• Miliband said speaking out about phone hacking in July 2011 felt "like crossing the Rubicon".
• News International would see Miliband's criticism over phone hacking as "an act of war", he told inquiry.• News International would see Miliband's criticism over phone hacking as "an act of war", he told inquiry.
• Not speaking out about hacking sooner was a "failure of the establishment", Miliband said.• Not speaking out about hacking sooner was a "failure of the establishment", Miliband said.
• Miliband stood by a January 2011 Tom Baldwin email urging Labour MPs not to link phone hacking and News Corp's BSkyB bid.• Miliband stood by a January 2011 Tom Baldwin email urging Labour MPs not to link phone hacking and News Corp's BSkyB bid.
3.13pm: The inquiry is now taking a short break.3.13pm: The inquiry is now taking a short break.
3.12pm: Miliband says that calling for a public inquiry and for the resignation of Rebekah Brooks was "controversial", but there was "broad support" in shadow cabinet for it.3.12pm: Miliband says that calling for a public inquiry and for the resignation of Rebekah Brooks was "controversial", but there was "broad support" in shadow cabinet for it.
3.10pm: On 5 July 2011, Miliband made his first call for a public inquiry into phone hacking.3.10pm: On 5 July 2011, Miliband made his first call for a public inquiry into phone hacking.
Asked whether he was too slow to speak out, Miliband repeats that he was.Asked whether he was too slow to speak out, Miliband repeats that he was.
I knew at that moment that I was crossing a Rubicon, because this would be seen by News International as pretty much an act of war. In retrospect I wish I would have said it earlier.I knew at that moment that I was crossing a Rubicon, because this would be seen by News International as pretty much an act of war. In retrospect I wish I would have said it earlier.
3.04pm: Miliband is asked about a leaked email sent in January 2011 on behalf of Baldwin to shadow cabinet teams warning Labour spokespeople to avoid linking hacking with the BSkyB bid:3.04pm: Miliband is asked about a leaked email sent in January 2011 on behalf of Baldwin to shadow cabinet teams warning Labour spokespeople to avoid linking hacking with the BSkyB bid:
From: xxxx | Sent: 27 January 2011 To: xxxx
Subject: Important: Phone hacking		From: xxxx | Sent: 27 January 2011 To: xxxx
Subject: Important: Phone hacking
Dear all,Dear all,
Tom Baldwin has requested that any front bench spokespeople use the following line when questioned on phone hacking.Tom Baldwin has requested that any front bench spokespeople use the following line when questioned on phone hacking.
BSkyB bid and phone tapping
These issues should not be linked. One is a competition issue, the other an allegation of criminal activity.		BSkyB bid and phone tapping
These issues should not be linked. One is a competition issue, the other an allegation of criminal activity.
On BSkyB, we have been consistent in calling for fair play. We believe ministers should conduct themselves properly in what is a quasi-judicial process. We said Vince Cable showed he was incapable of behaving fairly towards News Corp. We have since raised questions about whether Jeremy Hunt can be fully impartial given his record of past statements. We do believe the bid should be referred to the Competition Commission and think Hunt should get on with it. Downing Street says that Cameron's dinners with Murdoch will not affect Hunt's judgement. We have to take them at their word.On BSkyB, we have been consistent in calling for fair play. We believe ministers should conduct themselves properly in what is a quasi-judicial process. We said Vince Cable showed he was incapable of behaving fairly towards News Corp. We have since raised questions about whether Jeremy Hunt can be fully impartial given his record of past statements. We do believe the bid should be referred to the Competition Commission and think Hunt should get on with it. Downing Street says that Cameron's dinners with Murdoch will not affect Hunt's judgement. We have to take them at their word.
On phone hacking, we believe the police should thoroughly investigate all allegations. But this is not just an issue about News International. Almost every media organisation in the country may end up becoming embroiled in these allegations. This goes to the root of a wider problem in public life. MPs are taking a hard look at themselves in the mirror over expenses. It is time the media did so too over the way it conducts itself.On phone hacking, we believe the police should thoroughly investigate all allegations. But this is not just an issue about News International. Almost every media organisation in the country may end up becoming embroiled in these allegations. This goes to the root of a wider problem in public life. MPs are taking a hard look at themselves in the mirror over expenses. It is time the media did so too over the way it conducts itself.
Frontbench spokespeople who want to talk about their personal experiences of being tapped should make it clear they are doing just that – speaking from personal experience.Frontbench spokespeople who want to talk about their personal experiences of being tapped should make it clear they are doing just that – speaking from personal experience.
We must guard against anything which appears to be attacking a particular newspaper group out of spite.We must guard against anything which appears to be attacking a particular newspaper group out of spite.
Thanks,Thanks,
xxxxxxxx
Labour Party Press OfficeLabour Party Press Office
Miliband says at that point the cabinet didn't think the two issues were linked, adding that they changed that position in July 2011 following the Milly Dowler revelations.Miliband says at that point the cabinet didn't think the two issues were linked, adding that they changed that position in July 2011 following the Milly Dowler revelations.
3.02pm: Miliband says that when he hired Baldwin, Lord Ashcroft had not yet make the allegation that the former Times journalist had "blagged" his way into his bank account.3.02pm: Miliband says that when he hired Baldwin, Lord Ashcroft had not yet make the allegation that the former Times journalist had "blagged" his way into his bank account.
Baldwin and former Times editor Peter Stothard both denied Ashcroft's allegation, he adds.Baldwin and former Times editor Peter Stothard both denied Ashcroft's allegation, he adds.
3.00pm: Jay asks Miliband about Tom Baldwin, the former former Times journalist and Labour party director of communications.3.00pm: Jay asks Miliband about Tom Baldwin, the former former Times journalist and Labour party director of communications.
Miliband says Baldwin's 10 years at the Times were not particularly relevant, but that his knowledge of the lobby system was.Miliband says Baldwin's 10 years at the Times were not particularly relevant, but that his knowledge of the lobby system was.
2.57pm: Another core participant asks about a text message from Fred Michel, the News Corp lobbyist, to Jeremy Hunt's special adviser, Adam Smith, on 2 February 2011.2.57pm: Another core participant asks about a text message from Fred Michel, the News Corp lobbyist, to Jeremy Hunt's special adviser, Adam Smith, on 2 February 2011.
Miliband says he is pretty sure he did not meet or have a conversation with Michel, but his then shadow culture secretary, Ivan Lewis, may have.Miliband says he is pretty sure he did not meet or have a conversation with Michel, but his then shadow culture secretary, Ivan Lewis, may have.
2.56pm: Miliband is asked by a core participant whether he raised phone hacking with Rupert Murdoch at News International's summer party on 16 June 2011.2.56pm: Miliband is asked by a core participant whether he raised phone hacking with Rupert Murdoch at News International's summer party on 16 June 2011.
"I didn't raise it with him and I should have done," he says."I didn't raise it with him and I should have done," he says.
2.53pm: Jay asks Miliband whether he was aware of off-the-record briefings against Tony Blair by Ed Balls, Charlie Whelan or Damian McBride.2.53pm: Jay asks Miliband whether he was aware of off-the-record briefings against Tony Blair by Ed Balls, Charlie Whelan or Damian McBride.
He says not for Ed Balls, then points out that Charlie Whelan left government in 1999 "because he briefed".He says not for Ed Balls, then points out that Charlie Whelan left government in 1999 "because he briefed".
Miliband says he raised concerns about McBride with Brown "about Mr McBride's activities" in September 2009.Miliband says he raised concerns about McBride with Brown "about Mr McBride's activities" in September 2009.
2.50pm: Miliband says that Labour was too close to News International.2.50pm: Miliband says that Labour was too close to News International.
"We didn't speak out when there was increasing evidence of News International's behaviour," he adds, citing Rebekah Brooks's testimony to the Commons culture select committee in 2003."We didn't speak out when there was increasing evidence of News International's behaviour," he adds, citing Rebekah Brooks's testimony to the Commons culture select committee in 2003.
Brooks told MPs: "We have paid police for information in the past."Brooks told MPs: "We have paid police for information in the past."
2.48pm: John Plunkett has sent us another extract from Miliband's witness statement:2.48pm: John Plunkett has sent us another extract from Miliband's witness statement:
There are many lessons to learn from the recent history of relations between the media and politicians, I pick out the following.There are many lessons to learn from the recent history of relations between the media and politicians, I pick out the following.
First, politicians were too slow in condemning or scrutinising the conduct of the media, in particular the phone hacking abuses. There were a number of reasons for this.First, politicians were too slow in condemning or scrutinising the conduct of the media, in particular the phone hacking abuses. There were a number of reasons for this.
Clearly a factor was the impact that it might have on the prospects of particular political parties. In addition, politicians were wary, in some ways rightly, of being seen to be curtailing the freedom of the press.Clearly a factor was the impact that it might have on the prospects of particular political parties. In addition, politicians were wary, in some ways rightly, of being seen to be curtailing the freedom of the press.
Second, the regulatory framework applying to the print media was ineffective either in preventing or providing remedy for abuses such as phone hacking. There was also insufficient enforcement by the police of the criminal law for there to be an adequate check on the conduct of some elements of the print media, in particular some of the Murdoch newspapers.Second, the regulatory framework applying to the print media was ineffective either in preventing or providing remedy for abuses such as phone hacking. There was also insufficient enforcement by the police of the criminal law for there to be an adequate check on the conduct of some elements of the print media, in particular some of the Murdoch newspapers.
Third, the concentration of media ownership in a small number of hands, particularly across different forms of media increased the importance of those proprietors in the eyes of some politicians. Tt increased the conflict between the politician's duty to act in the public interest and his or her interest in remaining on good terms with the powerful media proprietor.Third, the concentration of media ownership in a small number of hands, particularly across different forms of media increased the importance of those proprietors in the eyes of some politicians. Tt increased the conflict between the politician's duty to act in the public interest and his or her interest in remaining on good terms with the powerful media proprietor.
Fourth, the revelation of the relationship between some representatives of the media and some politicans has further undermined trust in both the media and politicians.Fourth, the revelation of the relationship between some representatives of the media and some politicans has further undermined trust in both the media and politicians.
2.45pm: Miliband says keeping a record of media contacts is "a good backstop of transparency".2.45pm: Miliband says keeping a record of media contacts is "a good backstop of transparency".
2.39pm: Jay says Miliband had 15 contacts with News International from September 2010 to July 2011 – when the phone-hacking revelations mounted – but only one after that.2.39pm: Jay says Miliband had 15 contacts with News International from September 2010 to July 2011 – when the phone-hacking revelations mounted – but only one after that.
He says he didn't have particularly good relations with the Sun before hacking, and this didn't improve afterwards.He says he didn't have particularly good relations with the Sun before hacking, and this didn't improve afterwards.
However, this would not stop him engaging with the Sun or the Times.However, this would not stop him engaging with the Sun or the Times.
2.36pm: Miliband had a phone call with Rebekah Brooks on 21 December 2010  – the day Jeremy Hunt was handed Vince Cable's quasi-judicial role on News Corp's BSkyB bid.2.36pm: Miliband had a phone call with Rebekah Brooks on 21 December 2010  – the day Jeremy Hunt was handed Vince Cable's quasi-judicial role on News Corp's BSkyB bid.
2.34pm: James Murdoch telephoned Ed Miliband on 3 March 2011 to brief him on News Corporation's "undertakings in lieu" in the BSkyB bid. Miliband describes it as a "courtesy call".2.34pm: James Murdoch telephoned Ed Miliband on 3 March 2011 to brief him on News Corporation's "undertakings in lieu" in the BSkyB bid. Miliband describes it as a "courtesy call".
2.34pm: The inquiry turns to Miliband's meetings with proprietors since he became Labour leader in September 2010.2.34pm: The inquiry turns to Miliband's meetings with proprietors since he became Labour leader in September 2010.
2.31pm: Miliband says questions of "concentration of power" cannot be divorced by the behaviour of some parts of the press, referring to Rupert Murdoch's control of about a third of British commercial media before the closure of the News of the World.2.31pm: Miliband says questions of "concentration of power" cannot be divorced by the behaviour of some parts of the press, referring to Rupert Murdoch's control of about a third of British commercial media before the closure of the News of the World.
"I think part of the arrogance ... came from that," he adds."I think part of the arrogance ... came from that," he adds.
2.29pm: Miliband describes evidence by the parents of Madeleine McCann to the inquiry as "chilling" and says press coverage of them breached almost all of the PCC editors' code.2.29pm: Miliband describes evidence by the parents of Madeleine McCann to the inquiry as "chilling" and says press coverage of them breached almost all of the PCC editors' code.
It may not have been illegal, but that does not lessen the intrusion, he adds.It may not have been illegal, but that does not lessen the intrusion, he adds.
2.26pm: Miliband says politicians were wary of taking up the issue of press redress for a variety of reasons, but mainly because of a fear of repercussions. He adds that the "chilling effect is not an excuse for inaction".2.26pm: Miliband says politicians were wary of taking up the issue of press redress for a variety of reasons, but mainly because of a fear of repercussions. He adds that the "chilling effect is not an excuse for inaction".
2.23pm: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:2.23pm: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:
EdMill sensible on fact/comment issue; not a priority. Says no Murdoch 'deal' but press influences "terms of public debate".EdMill sensible on fact/comment issue; not a priority. Says no Murdoch 'deal' but press influences "terms of public debate".
— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) June 12, 2012— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) June 12, 2012
2.20pm: John Plunkett, our media correspondent at the inquiry, has sent us this extract from Miliband's written statement:2.20pm: John Plunkett, our media correspondent at the inquiry, has sent us this extract from Miliband's written statement:
This inquiry was and is essential, most of all for the victims of phone hacking and other illegal practices. Clearly some politicians were targeted but it is those who never sought to be public figures or to be in the limelight including families like the Dowlers who have suffered the most and who most need some measure of justice from this inquiry.This inquiry was and is essential, most of all for the victims of phone hacking and other illegal practices. Clearly some politicians were targeted but it is those who never sought to be public figures or to be in the limelight including families like the Dowlers who have suffered the most and who most need some measure of justice from this inquiry.
For some time it was apparent that power was being exercised irresponsibly by some sections of the press.For some time it was apparent that power was being exercised irresponsibly by some sections of the press.
The failure to get to grips with this earlier was a failure on thepart of the police who failed to adequately investigate it, and politicians who, with a few exceptions, failed to challenge early enough what was happening.The failure to get to grips with this earlier was a failure on thepart of the police who failed to adequately investigate it, and politicians who, with a few exceptions, failed to challenge early enough what was happening.
When the politicians did finally speak out it had a liberating effect on our ability to represent the public interest. The sense of immunity which News International felt, even on the day of the Milly Dowler revelations, had disappeared. This is good for our democracy.When the politicians did finally speak out it had a liberating effect on our ability to represent the public interest. The sense of immunity which News International felt, even on the day of the Milly Dowler revelations, had disappeared. This is good for our democracy.
I have said, along with other politicians and with the benefit of hindsight, that I should have spoken out earlier. I first called for an independent inquiry in April 2011. Following the revelations about Milly Dowler, it was immediately clear that the inquiry needed to be judge led.I have said, along with other politicians and with the benefit of hindsight, that I should have spoken out earlier. I first called for an independent inquiry in April 2011. Following the revelations about Milly Dowler, it was immediately clear that the inquiry needed to be judge led.
I believe that this inquiry offers a unique opportunity to minimise the risk that these sort of abuses will recur, to establish a better relationship between the press and politicians, and to restore the reputation of the press.I believe that this inquiry offers a unique opportunity to minimise the risk that these sort of abuses will recur, to establish a better relationship between the press and politicians, and to restore the reputation of the press.
2.17pm: Miliband becomes the latest figure to call for a separation of factual reporting and comment in newspapers.2.17pm: Miliband becomes the latest figure to call for a separation of factual reporting and comment in newspapers.
He concedes it will be difficult to regulate to separate fact and conjecture.He concedes it will be difficult to regulate to separate fact and conjecture.
However, he does not go as far as to say regulation should enforce this separation.However, he does not go as far as to say regulation should enforce this separation.
2.16pm: It is an impassioned opening by Miliband, who has been given significant leeway to express his concerns.2.16pm: It is an impassioned opening by Miliband, who has been given significant leeway to express his concerns.
His pledge to support a cross-party consensus on the inquiry's recommendations will pressure David Cameron to make a similar commitment.His pledge to support a cross-party consensus on the inquiry's recommendations will pressure David Cameron to make a similar commitment.
That will be tricky for the prime minister given the previously expressed scepticism of senior ministers, including Michael Gove and Theresa May.That will be tricky for the prime minister given the previously expressed scepticism of senior ministers, including Michael Gove and Theresa May.
2.15pm: Miliband says the biggest injustice needed to be put right by the inquiry is towards "ordinary people".2.15pm: Miliband says the biggest injustice needed to be put right by the inquiry is towards "ordinary people".
He urges the inquiry to address a "mutual culture of contempt" between the press and politicians.He urges the inquiry to address a "mutual culture of contempt" between the press and politicians.
2.13pm: The Guardian's Patrick Wintour has just tweeted:2.13pm: The Guardian's Patrick Wintour has just tweeted:
big pitch by Miliband that he will work with Leveson recommendations as Leveson says he will be very disappointed if his work is fruitless
— Patrick Wintour (@patrickwintour) June 12, 2012		big pitch by Miliband that he will work with Leveson recommendations as Leveson says he will be very disappointed if his work is fruitless
— Patrick Wintour (@patrickwintour) June 12, 2012
2.11pm: Leveson thanks Miliband for his support, repeating previous sentiments that he will be "hugely disappointed" if his inquiry's recommendations simply founder like those of previous inquiries.2.11pm: Leveson thanks Miliband for his support, repeating previous sentiments that he will be "hugely disappointed" if his inquiry's recommendations simply founder like those of previous inquiries.
2.10pm: Miliband starts by saying that parts of the British press are outstanding, praising the Guardian's investigation into phone hacking.2.10pm: Miliband starts by saying that parts of the British press are outstanding, praising the Guardian's investigation into phone hacking.
However, Miliband adds that "press, police and politicians" should have spoken out about press malpractice earlier. This was a failure of the establishment, he says.However, Miliband adds that "press, police and politicians" should have spoken out about press malpractice earlier. This was a failure of the establishment, he says.
Miliband says: "I knew when I was speaking out that I was crossing the Rubicon."Miliband says: "I knew when I was speaking out that I was crossing the Rubicon."
He pledges his support for cross-party work on Leveson's eventual recommendations.He pledges his support for cross-party work on Leveson's eventual recommendations.
2.07pm: Labour leader Ed Miliband has taken the witness stand.2.07pm: Labour leader Ed Miliband has taken the witness stand.
Robert Jay QC, counsel to the inquiry, is leading the questioning.Robert Jay QC, counsel to the inquiry, is leading the questioning.
1.59pm: News International has issued a statement about Major's claim that Murdoch threatened his titles would oppose the Tories if they did not change policy before the 1997 election. An NI spokesperson said:1.59pm: News International has issued a statement about Major's claim that Murdoch threatened his titles would oppose the Tories if they did not change policy before the 1997 election. An NI spokesperson said:
News International titles did not act in unison in the 1997 election. The Sunday Times supported John Major, The Times was neutral, and The Sun and the News of the World supported Labour.News International titles did not act in unison in the 1997 election. The Sunday Times supported John Major, The Times was neutral, and The Sun and the News of the World supported Labour.
12.42pm: Here is a lunchtime summary of Sir John Major's evidence:12.42pm: Here is a lunchtime summary of Sir John Major's evidence:
• Major said Rupert Murdoch asked him to change government policy on Europe in 1997.• Major said Rupert Murdoch asked him to change government policy on Europe in 1997.
• Murdoch told Major in 1997 "I would like you to change your policy and if you don't change your policy my organisation cannot support you", the inquiry heard.• Murdoch told Major in 1997 "I would like you to change your policy and if you don't change your policy my organisation cannot support you", the inquiry heard.
• In a letter seen by the inquiry, Major accused Gordon Brown's special advisers of lying about him "for party political advantage".• In a letter seen by the inquiry, Major accused Gordon Brown's special advisers of lying about him "for party political advantage".
• Major denied Kelvin MacKenzie threatened to pour a "bucket of shit" on him in a now-famous "Black Wednesday" phone call.• Major denied Kelvin MacKenzie threatened to pour a "bucket of shit" on him in a now-famous "Black Wednesday" phone call.
• Major said he was "much too sensitive" about press coverage of him during his seven-year premiership.• Major said he was "much too sensitive" about press coverage of him during his seven-year premiership.
• The appointment of spin doctors by prime ministers, ushered in by Tony Blair, was a "very retrograde step", Major said.• The appointment of spin doctors by prime ministers, ushered in by Tony Blair, was a "very retrograde step", Major said.
• Major urged cross-party support for recommendations of the Leveson inquiry, and said proprietors should ultimately be held responsible for their newspapers.• Major urged cross-party support for recommendations of the Leveson inquiry, and said proprietors should ultimately be held responsible for their newspapers.
12.38pm: Major has finished his evidence.12.38pm: Major has finished his evidence.
The inquiry is now taking a break and will resume at 2pm with evidence from Ed Miliband and Harriet Harman.The inquiry is now taking a break and will resume at 2pm with evidence from Ed Miliband and Harriet Harman.
12.37pm: Major ends by reiterating his point that the inquiry should put this saga to bed with a respectable press.12.37pm: Major ends by reiterating his point that the inquiry should put this saga to bed with a respectable press.
"I think we need to curb the worst to protect the best. That is what I hope will be the outcome of this inquiry in due course," Major says."I think we need to curb the worst to protect the best. That is what I hope will be the outcome of this inquiry in due course," Major says.
12.35pm: Major says editors, as well as proprietors, should take responsibility for the content in their newspapers. "They should accept responsibility for the climate which they themselves set," he adds.12.35pm: Major says editors, as well as proprietors, should take responsibility for the content in their newspapers. "They should accept responsibility for the climate which they themselves set," he adds.
12.33pm: Major says there must be a "statutory enforcement mechanism" of press regulation, with a code that is voluntarily agreed code by an independent body free of interference from editors or proprietors.12.33pm: Major says there must be a "statutory enforcement mechanism" of press regulation, with a code that is voluntarily agreed code by an independent body free of interference from editors or proprietors.
12.27pm: If Murdoch and others had said at some stage "you will not hack phones" we would have had no need for the Leveson inquiry and discussion about sanctions or statutory regulatory bodies, Major says.12.27pm: If Murdoch and others had said at some stage "you will not hack phones" we would have had no need for the Leveson inquiry and discussion about sanctions or statutory regulatory bodies, Major says.
Reporters act within a "culture", Major says, adding that he finds it very difficult to accept that proprietors do not know was going on beneath them.Reporters act within a "culture", Major says, adding that he finds it very difficult to accept that proprietors do not know was going on beneath them.
This inquiry has come about because proprietors did not know what was going on in their newsrooms, Major says. "And they can do so and they should do so."This inquiry has come about because proprietors did not know what was going on in their newsrooms, Major says. "And they can do so and they should do so."
12.26pm: The new watchdog should be able to impose fines and remove the VAT exemption from erring newspapers, Major says.12.26pm: The new watchdog should be able to impose fines and remove the VAT exemption from erring newspapers, Major says.
He adds that making proprietors and editors personally liable for what is published in their papers.He adds that making proprietors and editors personally liable for what is published in their papers.
"Proprietors, and in a lesser extent their editors, have failed to hand [reasonable guidelines on behaviour] down to their reporters," he says."Proprietors, and in a lesser extent their editors, have failed to hand [reasonable guidelines on behaviour] down to their reporters," he says.
12.25pm: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:12.25pm: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:
Major accuses brown advisers of *lying* abt him as regards his alleged but untrue refusal to release Black Weds papers + rescind Mugabe ktMajor accuses brown advisers of *lying* abt him as regards his alleged but untrue refusal to release Black Weds papers + rescind Mugabe kt
— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) June 12, 2012— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) June 12, 2012
12.24pm: Major is asked about the future of press regulation.12.24pm: Major is asked about the future of press regulation.
He says he does not believe the PCC has ever been a "credible regulator", nor would it be if it were reconstituted.He says he does not believe the PCC has ever been a "credible regulator", nor would it be if it were reconstituted.
12.18pm: Major says there is a need to strike a difficult balancing act between freedom of the press and the "liberty of the individual".12.18pm: Major says there is a need to strike a difficult balancing act between freedom of the press and the "liberty of the individual".
12.13pm: Major admits in his witness statement that this was a "missed opportunity". The press may not have fallen into disrepute if he had enacted some of these changes, he adds.12.13pm: Major admits in his witness statement that this was a "missed opportunity". The press may not have fallen into disrepute if he had enacted some of these changes, he adds.
"It was a missed opportunity, but it wasn't one in the event that could have been taken," Major says, repeating that tighter curbs on the press did not have parliamentary support."It was a missed opportunity, but it wasn't one in the event that could have been taken," Major says, repeating that tighter curbs on the press did not have parliamentary support.
12.12pm: In a report, Major was told that statutory regulation of the press would "give rise to a major storm and, in my view, would fail in parliament".12.12pm: In a report, Major was told that statutory regulation of the press would "give rise to a major storm and, in my view, would fail in parliament".
12.08pm: Major is asked about his decision not to push through changes to press regulation after a report suggesting that should happen. He acknowledges there would have been a row with the press, but suggests that did not weigh heavily on his decision-making.12.08pm: Major is asked about his decision not to push through changes to press regulation after a report suggesting that should happen. He acknowledges there would have been a row with the press, but suggests that did not weigh heavily on his decision-making.
12.04pm: Major says that John Wakeham, the former PCC chairman, was well-suited at the time to press reform. He believes now that more could have been done.12.04pm: Major says that John Wakeham, the former PCC chairman, was well-suited at the time to press reform. He believes now that more could have been done.
11.58am: Major says that there as a "unversality" of opinion in the press that a privacy tort would stifle investigative journalism. A number of MPs on the Calcutt subcommittee shared the same view, he adds.11.58am: Major says that there as a "unversality" of opinion in the press that a privacy tort would stifle investigative journalism. A number of MPs on the Calcutt subcommittee shared the same view, he adds.
The main reason the government was unable to enact Calcutt was because it could not get the bill through parliament, Major says. "We at the time had no workable majority."The main reason the government was unable to enact Calcutt was because it could not get the bill through parliament, Major says. "We at the time had no workable majority."
11.52am: Lisa O'Carroll, our media correspondent at the inquiry, has sent us this transcript of Major's remarks on Rupert Murdoch and the Sun:11.52am: Lisa O'Carroll, our media correspondent at the inquiry, has sent us this transcript of Major's remarks on Rupert Murdoch and the Sun:
I do think parts of his press, parts of his media empire have lowered the general quality of the British media. I think that is a loss.I do think parts of his press, parts of his media empire have lowered the general quality of the British media. I think that is a loss.
I think it is evident which newspaper I am referring to. I think they have lowered the tone. I think the interaction that there has been with politicians has done no good either to the press or to the politicians.I think it is evident which newspaper I am referring to. I think they have lowered the tone. I think the interaction that there has been with politicians has done no good either to the press or to the politicians.
I think the sheer scale of the influence he is believed to [have] whether he exercises it or not, is an unattractive facet in British national life, and it does seem to me an oddity that in a nation which prides itself on one man, one vote, we should have one man, who can't vote, with a large collection of newspapers and a large share of the electronic media outlets.I think the sheer scale of the influence he is believed to [have] whether he exercises it or not, is an unattractive facet in British national life, and it does seem to me an oddity that in a nation which prides itself on one man, one vote, we should have one man, who can't vote, with a large collection of newspapers and a large share of the electronic media outlets.
I don't think you could or should in a sort of diverse world in which we live, actually do anything about that, but it does strike me as slightly odd that that actually is the position.I don't think you could or should in a sort of diverse world in which we live, actually do anything about that, but it does strike me as slightly odd that that actually is the position.
11.49am: Newspapers should be free to comment on whatever they wish, when they wish, Major says. But "irresponsibility and unfairness" should not creep into the reporting, he adds.11.49am: Newspapers should be free to comment on whatever they wish, when they wish, Major says. But "irresponsibility and unfairness" should not creep into the reporting, he adds.
11.46am: Jay turns to the first Calcutt report of June 1990, before Major became prime minister. The PCC was set up in January 1991, to replace the Press Council.11.46am: Jay turns to the first Calcutt report of June 1990, before Major became prime minister. The PCC was set up in January 1991, to replace the Press Council.
Major says this was one of myriad issues that cross a prime minister's desk, and that it would likely have been "subcontracted" to the relevant government department.Major says this was one of myriad issues that cross a prime minister's desk, and that it would likely have been "subcontracted" to the relevant government department.
"Freedom of the press must not mean a licence for the press to do whatever it wishes without let or hinderance," Major says, hinting at the tone of his recommendations for the future, to be outlined later."Freedom of the press must not mean a licence for the press to do whatever it wishes without let or hinderance," Major says, hinting at the tone of his recommendations for the future, to be outlined later.
11.41am: Major says there is a huge responsibility on the leaders of the three main political parties to support the recommendations of the Leveson inquiry.11.41am: Major says there is a huge responsibility on the leaders of the three main political parties to support the recommendations of the Leveson inquiry.
"It is difficult to see how this matter could be returned to in any reasonably period of time," he adds. "Those parts of the press that have behaved badly will continue to behave badly.""It is difficult to see how this matter could be returned to in any reasonably period of time," he adds. "Those parts of the press that have behaved badly will continue to behave badly."
He warns that political leaders are now "drinking in the last chance saloon," repurposing the famous claim made of the media two decades ago. Political leaders need to unite on reform, he adds.He warns that political leaders are now "drinking in the last chance saloon," repurposing the famous claim made of the media two decades ago. Political leaders need to unite on reform, he adds.
He reiterates his belief that the underlying purpose is to bring up the standard of the bad press to the good.He reiterates his belief that the underlying purpose is to bring up the standard of the bad press to the good.
11.36am: Major is asked about his view of Rupert Murdoch. "I was not an especial admirer or Rupert Murdoch's activities as a proprietor," Major says. He admired Murdoch as a businessman, citing Sky as a "very notable contribution to our national life".11.36am: Major is asked about his view of Rupert Murdoch. "I was not an especial admirer or Rupert Murdoch's activities as a proprietor," Major says. He admired Murdoch as a businessman, citing Sky as a "very notable contribution to our national life".
"I do think parts of his media empire have lowered the general quality for the British media," he adds."I think that is a loss. I think it is evident which newspaper I am referring to. I think they have lowered the tone.""I do think parts of his media empire have lowered the general quality for the British media," he adds."I think that is a loss. I think it is evident which newspaper I am referring to. I think they have lowered the tone."
Major says it is "slightly odd" that one man who cannot vote in this country apparently wields such influence on British politics.Major says it is "slightly odd" that one man who cannot vote in this country apparently wields such influence on British politics.
11.33am: In a "more mundane example", Major says one newspaper distorted a photograph of him on holiday appearing to discard litter. He was actually throwing a drink can to his wife, out of shot.11.33am: In a "more mundane example", Major says one newspaper distorted a photograph of him on holiday appearing to discard litter. He was actually throwing a drink can to his wife, out of shot.
Major recalls another example. On holiday with his wife in Portugal, the Sun "talked or bribed" its way into the holiday home, took photographs and published a story before the pair had even arrived, he says.Major recalls another example. On holiday with his wife in Portugal, the Sun "talked or bribed" its way into the holiday home, took photographs and published a story before the pair had even arrived, he says.
Major's wife telephoned the then Sun editor, Kelvin MacKenzie, who, Major says, told her "you have no right to any privacy" and after further exchanges hung up on her.Major's wife telephoned the then Sun editor, Kelvin MacKenzie, who, Major says, told her "you have no right to any privacy" and after further exchanges hung up on her.
11.31am: Jay asks about personal intrusion against Major.11.31am: Jay asks about personal intrusion against Major.
Major says his office once received a phone call purporting to be from an hospital's accident and emergency department saying they were to operate on his son's girlfriend after an accident, but first needed to know whether she was pregnant. His son's girlfriend had not been in an accident and was not pregnant, he adds.Major says his office once received a phone call purporting to be from an hospital's accident and emergency department saying they were to operate on his son's girlfriend after an accident, but first needed to know whether she was pregnant. His son's girlfriend had not been in an accident and was not pregnant, he adds.
In another example, Major says his 20-year-old son was followed by a photographer for the News of the World, who had been "instructed to follow him day and night".In another example, Major says his 20-year-old son was followed by a photographer for the News of the World, who had been "instructed to follow him day and night".
11.27am: Major stresses the importance of media plurality. He believes parliament should set a percentage on the limit of printed press and electronic press that one person or media group can own, and a limit to the total media ownership of one company.11.27am: Major stresses the importance of media plurality. He believes parliament should set a percentage on the limit of printed press and electronic press that one person or media group can own, and a limit to the total media ownership of one company.
He says the cross-media limit should be the 15%-20% (of all outlets) bracket, adding that there should be "a clear limit".He says the cross-media limit should be the 15%-20% (of all outlets) bracket, adding that there should be "a clear limit".
"I think it's really for parliament to look at and make a judgment in the light of modern circumstances," Major says."I think it's really for parliament to look at and make a judgment in the light of modern circumstances," Major says.
11.25am: Major says he forgot to mention the act in his witness statement as he wrote most of it travelling in Japan, Singapore and Zambia – surely a first for this inquiry.11.25am: Major says he forgot to mention the act in his witness statement as he wrote most of it travelling in Japan, Singapore and Zambia – surely a first for this inquiry.
11.23am: The inquiry resumes and Major is asked about the Broadcasting Act 1996.11.23am: The inquiry resumes and Major is asked about the Broadcasting Act 1996.
A good deal was written about the act in newspaper columns, says Major, but he is not aware of any direct lobbying on the topic.A good deal was written about the act in newspaper columns, says Major, but he is not aware of any direct lobbying on the topic.
11.23am: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:11.23am: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:
Major nostalgia all very well but he is now whinging about his press. British papers are politicised + adversarial - so is the Commons.Major nostalgia all very well but he is now whinging about his press. British papers are politicised + adversarial - so is the Commons.
— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) June 12, 2012— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) June 12, 2012
11.18am: Here is a brief summary of Sir John Major's evidence to the Leveson inquiry so far:11.18am: Here is a brief summary of Sir John Major's evidence to the Leveson inquiry so far:
• Major said Rupert Murdoch asked him to change government policy on Europe in 1997.• Major said Rupert Murdoch asked him to change government policy on Europe in 1997.
• Murdoch told Major in 1997 "I would like you to change your policy and if you don't change your policy my organisation cannot support you", inquiry heard.• Murdoch told Major in 1997 "I would like you to change your policy and if you don't change your policy my organisation cannot support you", inquiry heard.
• Major denied Kelvin MacKenzie threatened to pour a "bucket of shit" over him in now famous "Black Wednesday" phone call.• Major denied Kelvin MacKenzie threatened to pour a "bucket of shit" over him in now famous "Black Wednesday" phone call.
• Major said he was "much too sensitive" about press coverage of him during his seven-year premiership.• Major said he was "much too sensitive" about press coverage of him during his seven-year premiership.
• The appointment of spin doctors by prime ministers, ushered in by Tony Blair, was a "very retrograde step", Major said.• The appointment of spin doctors by prime ministers, ushered in by Tony Blair, was a "very retrograde step", Major said.
11.16am: The inquiry is now taking a short break.11.16am: The inquiry is now taking a short break.
11.13am: Jay asks Major about his "back to basics" policy. He relishes the opportunity to read his introduction to the policy at the time, and denies it was a "puritanical crusade" as it was described by sections of the press.11.13am: Jay asks Major about his "back to basics" policy. He relishes the opportunity to read his introduction to the policy at the time, and denies it was a "puritanical crusade" as it was described by sections of the press.
11.08am: John Plunkett, the Guardian's media correspondent at the inquiry, has sent us this fuller account of Major's 1997 meeting with Rupert Murdoch:11.08am: John Plunkett, the Guardian's media correspondent at the inquiry, has sent us this fuller account of Major's 1997 meeting with Rupert Murdoch:
John Major, from his witness statement, on his 1997 meeting with Rupert MurdochJohn Major, from his witness statement, on his 1997 meeting with Rupert Murdoch
In his evidence to this inquiry Mr Rupert Murdoch said 'I have never asked a prime minister for anything'. By this I assume him to mean that he has never asked for anything that would benefit him personally or his company. In my very limited contact with Mr Murdoch his statement is on a strict interpretation literally true. Certainly he never asked for anything directly from me but he was not averse to pressing for policy changes. In the runup to the 1997 general election in my third and last meeting with him on 2 February 1997 he made it clear that he disliked my European policies which he wished me to change. If not, his papers could not and would not support the Conservative government. So far as I recall he made no mention of editorial independence but referred to all his papers as 'we'. Both Mr Murdoch and I kept our word. I made no change in policy and Mr Murdoch's titles did indeed oppose the Conservative party. It came as no surprise to me when soon after our meeting the Sun newspaper announced its support for Labour.In his evidence to this inquiry Mr Rupert Murdoch said 'I have never asked a prime minister for anything'. By this I assume him to mean that he has never asked for anything that would benefit him personally or his company. In my very limited contact with Mr Murdoch his statement is on a strict interpretation literally true. Certainly he never asked for anything directly from me but he was not averse to pressing for policy changes. In the runup to the 1997 general election in my third and last meeting with him on 2 February 1997 he made it clear that he disliked my European policies which he wished me to change. If not, his papers could not and would not support the Conservative government. So far as I recall he made no mention of editorial independence but referred to all his papers as 'we'. Both Mr Murdoch and I kept our word. I made no change in policy and Mr Murdoch's titles did indeed oppose the Conservative party. It came as no surprise to me when soon after our meeting the Sun newspaper announced its support for Labour.
Major told the inquiry:Major told the inquiry:
I haven't talked about this conversation at any stage over the past 15 years but now I am under oath. I was asked the question and I have answered the question ... It's not very often someone sits in front of a prime minister and says to a prime minister 'I would like you to change your policy and if you don't change your policy my organisation cannot support you.' People may often think that ... but it's not often that point is directly put to a prime minister so it's unlikely to have been something that I would have forgotten.I haven't talked about this conversation at any stage over the past 15 years but now I am under oath. I was asked the question and I have answered the question ... It's not very often someone sits in front of a prime minister and says to a prime minister 'I would like you to change your policy and if you don't change your policy my organisation cannot support you.' People may often think that ... but it's not often that point is directly put to a prime minister so it's unlikely to have been something that I would have forgotten.
11.06am: Major is asked about a section in his witness statement on "unfair comment" relating to the peace process in Northern Ireland. He says a framework document on the peace process was leaked by a "very hostile" unionist source to the Times.11.06am: Major is asked about a section in his witness statement on "unfair comment" relating to the peace process in Northern Ireland. He says a framework document on the peace process was leaked by a "very hostile" unionist source to the Times.
He tried to get the Times to halt publication of the document, warning that they would do great harm to the peace process.He tried to get the Times to halt publication of the document, warning that they would do great harm to the peace process.
The Times went ahead and published the article, to "absolute mayhem in the House of Commons".The Times went ahead and published the article, to "absolute mayhem in the House of Commons".
"I think that was irresponsible on an issue like this where people's lives are at stake," Major says."I think that was irresponsible on an issue like this where people's lives are at stake," Major says.
"The government had actually said to them, 'don't do it, this is wrong'. It was a very rare occurence, but it concerned me a lot at the time.""The government had actually said to them, 'don't do it, this is wrong'. It was a very rare occurence, but it concerned me a lot at the time."
11.03am: Jay asks Major about media lobbying. In his witness statement, the former prime minister says he can recall no express lobbying by the media on industry issues.11.03am: Jay asks Major about media lobbying. In his witness statement, the former prime minister says he can recall no express lobbying by the media on industry issues.
"They expressed their views in the columns of their newspapers ... but there was no direct lobbying," he adds."They expressed their views in the columns of their newspapers ... but there was no direct lobbying," he adds.
11.02am: The Guardian's Lisa O'Carroll has just tweeted:11.02am: The Guardian's Lisa O'Carroll has just tweeted:
Major: the way the Sun treated Neil Kinnock was "pretty way over the top" #leveson . I found him a much more considerable man than portrayedMajor: the way the Sun treated Neil Kinnock was "pretty way over the top" #leveson . I found him a much more considerable man than portrayed
— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) June 12, 2012— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) June 12, 2012
11.00am: Major is asked about the Sun's campaign against Labour's Neil Kinnock in 1992.11.00am: Major is asked about the Sun's campaign against Labour's Neil Kinnock in 1992.
The day of the election, the paper said on its front page: ''If Kinnock wins tomorrow, will the last person to leave the country please switch off the lights."
The following day, it declared: "It was The Sun wot won it"		The day of the election, the paper said on its front page: ''If Kinnock wins tomorrow, will the last person to leave the country please switch off the lights."
The following day, it declared: "It was The Sun wot won it"
He describes it as "crude" and "over the top" but does not think the Sun made a huge amount of difference.He describes it as "crude" and "over the top" but does not think the Sun made a huge amount of difference.
10.57am: Major says he genuinely believed his Tory party were going to win the 1992 election.10.57am: Major says he genuinely believed his Tory party were going to win the 1992 election.
"I may have been delusional, but I thought all the way through we were going to win that election.""I may have been delusional, but I thought all the way through we were going to win that election."
10.55am: Asked why he thinks the Sun supported New Labour in 1997, Major says: "I think it may have had embarassment of supporting us ... and may have had something to do with Calcutt ... and may have had something to do with broadcasting policy."10.55am: Asked why he thinks the Sun supported New Labour in 1997, Major says: "I think it may have had embarassment of supporting us ... and may have had something to do with Calcutt ... and may have had something to do with broadcasting policy."
10.52am: Jay asks Major whether he was surprised when the Sun came out in support of New Labour in 1997.10.52am: Jay asks Major whether he was surprised when the Sun came out in support of New Labour in 1997.
Major says he was not surprised, given the paper's criticism of his government.Major says he was not surprised, given the paper's criticism of his government.
He adds that the Sun need not have embarked on a "ludicrous charade" of carrying an op-ed by Tony Blair on Europe, then switching its support to New Labour.He adds that the Sun need not have embarked on a "ludicrous charade" of carrying an op-ed by Tony Blair on Europe, then switching its support to New Labour.
He says it could have said the Tories were tired after 18 years, or it could have said Blair hadchanged Labour.He says it could have said the Tories were tired after 18 years, or it could have said Blair hadchanged Labour.
"In many ways Blair was to the right of me," Major says."In many ways Blair was to the right of me," Major says.
"I had gone swimming on the Thames and left my clothes on the riverbank and when I came back Mr Blair was wearing them," he adds."I had gone swimming on the Thames and left my clothes on the riverbank and when I came back Mr Blair was wearing them," he adds.
"Did they change over European policy? I don't think so, despite my conversation with Mr Murdoch," he says."Did they change over European policy? I don't think so, despite my conversation with Mr Murdoch," he says.
10.51am: "It is not very often someone sits in front of a prime minister and says 'I would like you to change your policy and if you do not change your policy our organisation cannot support you,'" Major says. "It is unlikely to be something I would have forgotten."10.51am: "It is not very often someone sits in front of a prime minister and says 'I would like you to change your policy and if you do not change your policy our organisation cannot support you,'" Major says. "It is unlikely to be something I would have forgotten."
"I think I would have preferred less of the editorial support and more of the equable news coverage," he adds."I think I would have preferred less of the editorial support and more of the equable news coverage," he adds.
10.50am: Major says this is the first time he has spoken about that dinner for 15 years because he is now under oath. Only Major, his wife, Rupert Murdoch and Elisabeth Murdoch were present.10.50am: Major says this is the first time he has spoken about that dinner for 15 years because he is now under oath. Only Major, his wife, Rupert Murdoch and Elisabeth Murdoch were present.
He admits to being "laconic" in his autobiography from "time to time".He admits to being "laconic" in his autobiography from "time to time".
10.48am: Major says that in 1997 it was suggested to him that he needed to "get closer" to the Murdoch press.10.48am: Major says that in 1997 it was suggested to him that he needed to "get closer" to the Murdoch press.
Major then met Murdoch for lunch in February 1997. During this dinner, Murdoch referred to his newspapers as "we" and said he did not like the government's policy on Europe, Major says.Major then met Murdoch for lunch in February 1997. During this dinner, Murdoch referred to his newspapers as "we" and said he did not like the government's policy on Europe, Major says.
"He didn't make the usual nod towards editorial independence," Major tells the inquiry."He didn't make the usual nod towards editorial independence," Major tells the inquiry.
He suggests that Murdoch wanted Britain to withdraw from the European Union, but says he made clear that was not going to happen.He suggests that Murdoch wanted Britain to withdraw from the European Union, but says he made clear that was not going to happen.
10.48am: Sir Gus O'Donnell, then Major's press secretary, suggested Major make a "veiled threat" to Murdoch at one of the pair's meetings, the inquiry hears. Neither Jay nor Major say what this "veiled threat" was, but Major says it is not the sort of thing a prime minister should have been saying so he did not.10.48am: Sir Gus O'Donnell, then Major's press secretary, suggested Major make a "veiled threat" to Murdoch at one of the pair's meetings, the inquiry hears. Neither Jay nor Major say what this "veiled threat" was, but Major says it is not the sort of thing a prime minister should have been saying so he did not.
10.45am: Major says he wanted to tell Murdoch that the economy had started recovery. He says he was prepared to take political pain to get inflation down; he adds that it has remained stable since.10.45am: Major says he wanted to tell Murdoch that the economy had started recovery. He says he was prepared to take political pain to get inflation down; he adds that it has remained stable since.
10.41am: Major says he believes the Sun was Murdoch's "house pet", whereas the Times and Sunday Times were given more latitude by the media tycoon.10.41am: Major says he believes the Sun was Murdoch's "house pet", whereas the Times and Sunday Times were given more latitude by the media tycoon.
10.38am: Jay turns to Major's meetings with newspaper proprietors.10.38am: Jay turns to Major's meetings with newspaper proprietors.
He met Conrad Black, then owner of the Telegraph titles, six times in seven years, and met Rupert Murdoch three times in seven years (14 May 1992, 19 August 1993 and 2 February 1997).He met Conrad Black, then owner of the Telegraph titles, six times in seven years, and met Rupert Murdoch three times in seven years (14 May 1992, 19 August 1993 and 2 February 1997).
Major says he does not have much recollection of his meetings with Murdoch. "They were plainly unmemorable to us both," he says.Major says he does not have much recollection of his meetings with Murdoch. "They were plainly unmemorable to us both," he says.
10.37am: Major says he has no solution to this, but urges the inquiry to think about the effect of this on the public.10.37am: Major says he has no solution to this, but urges the inquiry to think about the effect of this on the public.
Newspapers should be concerned to give the British public accurate information so they are best equip to vote in elections.Newspapers should be concerned to give the British public accurate information so they are best equip to vote in elections.
"It's a huge important role the newspapers could play and should play but don't play," Major adds."It's a huge important role the newspapers could play and should play but don't play," Major adds.
10.35am: Major returns to his view of newspapers as "politicised" and offering highly partisan reports of news events. He calls for newspapers to report "accurately, fairly and fully" what politicians have said and the likely impact of that on the British public.10.35am: Major returns to his view of newspapers as "politicised" and offering highly partisan reports of news events. He calls for newspapers to report "accurately, fairly and fully" what politicians have said and the likely impact of that on the British public.
The press are very important in carrying the message to the public, but if the message is perverted by the stance of the newspaper, or because hard news is ommitted … then the public are given much less than they ought to have in making up their mind at a gernal election.The press are very important in carrying the message to the public, but if the message is perverted by the stance of the newspaper, or because hard news is ommitted … then the public are given much less than they ought to have in making up their mind at a gernal election.
10.33am: Major says "logging contacts" between politicians and press has some value, but he would argue for a return to the civil service resuming the information roles in Whitehall.10.33am: Major says "logging contacts" between politicians and press has some value, but he would argue for a return to the civil service resuming the information roles in Whitehall.
10.32am: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:10.32am: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:
Major's noble appeal for civil servant driven press relations is utopian; pols will want + need own personal advisers in mod environmentMajor's noble appeal for civil servant driven press relations is utopian; pols will want + need own personal advisers in mod environment
— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) June 12, 2012— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) June 12, 2012
10.31am: Major describes as a "very retrograde step" the advent of party-political communications directors, ushed in with Tony Blair's appointment of Alastair Campbell.10.31am: Major describes as a "very retrograde step" the advent of party-political communications directors, ushed in with Tony Blair's appointment of Alastair Campbell.
"Once a political appointee speaks for government, the word of the government is no longer unquestioned," Major says."Once a political appointee speaks for government, the word of the government is no longer unquestioned," Major says.
He believes that an apolitical civil servant should be responsible for presenting the "unvarnished" truth in non-selective press briefings. This, too, has become a common theme in this module of the inquiry.He believes that an apolitical civil servant should be responsible for presenting the "unvarnished" truth in non-selective press briefings. This, too, has become a common theme in this module of the inquiry.
10.27am: Jay turns to personal relationships between journalists and politicians.10.27am: Jay turns to personal relationships between journalists and politicians.
Major begins by saying that some politicians can have "genuine" friendships with journalists. However, he adds that these relations become harmful when stories leak into the press of private discussions and "splits" in political parties.Major begins by saying that some politicians can have "genuine" friendships with journalists. However, he adds that these relations become harmful when stories leak into the press of private discussions and "splits" in political parties.
I think that perversion, that close relationship, whisks those conversations out in public and worse offers those seeking favours from the press to offer stories ... to the detriment of colleagues. We have seen a lot of that.I think that perversion, that close relationship, whisks those conversations out in public and worse offers those seeking favours from the press to offer stories ... to the detriment of colleagues. We have seen a lot of that.
10.23am: News and comment in newspapers "has melded to a great extent," says Major, picking up on a theme that has gathered pace in recent weeks at the inquiry. He suggests that this has been fastened by the advent of 24-hour news channels.10.23am: News and comment in newspapers "has melded to a great extent," says Major, picking up on a theme that has gathered pace in recent weeks at the inquiry. He suggests that this has been fastened by the advent of 24-hour news channels.
"Ideally, you would keep that apart," Major says of news and comment in newspapers. He is not the first politician to back that recommendation."Ideally, you would keep that apart," Major says of news and comment in newspapers. He is not the first politician to back that recommendation.
10.20am: There are some good parts of the press and some parts "that are not very good at all," says Major.10.20am: There are some good parts of the press and some parts "that are not very good at all," says Major.
They don't report the news accurately; they tend to deal in caricatures ... it takes something that has a tiny kernel of truth in it, perhaps, and stretches it far beyond where it can honestly go.They don't report the news accurately; they tend to deal in caricatures ... it takes something that has a tiny kernel of truth in it, perhaps, and stretches it far beyond where it can honestly go.
Major says he is not talking about the British press as a whole. He says any effective regulation will "lift the worst of the British press to the best of the British press".Major says he is not talking about the British press as a whole. He says any effective regulation will "lift the worst of the British press to the best of the British press".
He suggests that the balance in favour of free expression is now so great in Britain that people are not protected "from things that are unfair, untrue or malicious".He suggests that the balance in favour of free expression is now so great in Britain that people are not protected "from things that are unfair, untrue or malicious".
10.18am: Major decided to phone MacKenzie to see what he thought about the day, given that it had attracted various interpretations throughout.10.18am: Major decided to phone MacKenzie to see what he thought about the day, given that it had attracted various interpretations throughout.
"I dare say it wasn't an especially productive call," he adds."I dare say it wasn't an especially productive call," he adds.
10.18am: Major says he does not recollect the same conversation as has entered mythology.10.18am: Major says he does not recollect the same conversation as has entered mythology.
"There are more myths about Black Wednesday than the Greeks ever created," he says."There are more myths about Black Wednesday than the Greeks ever created," he says.
10.15am: Major is asked about his now famous telephone call with the then Sun editor, Kelvin MacKenzie, following the UK's exit from the Exchange Rate Mechanism on "Black Wednesday" in 1992.10.15am: Major is asked about his now famous telephone call with the then Sun editor, Kelvin MacKenzie, following the UK's exit from the Exchange Rate Mechanism on "Black Wednesday" in 1992.
MacKenzie told the inquiry:MacKenzie told the inquiry:
I said I've got a bucket of shit on my desk, prime minister, and I'm going to pour it all over you.I said I've got a bucket of shit on my desk, prime minister, and I'm going to pour it all over you.
Asked about his relationship with Major in the early 1990s, MacKenzie told the inquiry: "No, we did not have a particularly good relationship. He was no Thatcher, John Major."Asked about his relationship with Major in the early 1990s, MacKenzie told the inquiry: "No, we did not have a particularly good relationship. He was no Thatcher, John Major."
10.14am: Major says the press to him "was a source of wonder". The press told him what he was about to do (but in reality he wasn't), told him what he was thinking (that he wasn't) and told him what he had done (that he hadn't).10.14am: Major says the press to him "was a source of wonder". The press told him what he was about to do (but in reality he wasn't), told him what he was thinking (that he wasn't) and told him what he had done (that he hadn't).
Leveson quips: "I've had that feeling," to laughter in the courtroom.Leveson quips: "I've had that feeling," to laughter in the courtroom.
10.13am: Major confirms that he was "much too sensitive from time to time about what the press wrote".10.13am: Major confirms that he was "much too sensitive from time to time about what the press wrote".
"God knows why I was, but I was," he adds. "It is a basic human emotion to get a bit ratty about it.""God knows why I was, but I was," he adds. "It is a basic human emotion to get a bit ratty about it."
10.11am: Major says his distance to the press "clearly wasn't very amenable" to some sections of the industry.10.11am: Major says his distance to the press "clearly wasn't very amenable" to some sections of the industry.
This may be a contributory factor to his hostile coverage, he adds.This may be a contributory factor to his hostile coverage, he adds.
"It's perfectly understandable to be hostile to people you don't know rather than people you know well.""It's perfectly understandable to be hostile to people you don't know rather than people you know well."
Major says that after the 1992 election the press were not hostile, but "even".Major says that after the 1992 election the press were not hostile, but "even".
10.09am: In his witness statement, Major says he did not seek a special relationship with any media group.10.09am: In his witness statement, Major says he did not seek a special relationship with any media group.
"It was quixotic for me not to be close to the press," he adds. Major says he chose not to get close to the press both because he would not do it very well and because he saw it as "rather undignified"."It was quixotic for me not to be close to the press," he adds. Major says he chose not to get close to the press both because he would not do it very well and because he saw it as "rather undignified".
"I thought a relative distance between the press and me, and my government, would be a good idea," Major says. He adds that he was not hostile to the press."I thought a relative distance between the press and me, and my government, would be a good idea," Major says. He adds that he was not hostile to the press.
"I thought too close a personal relationship was probably not for me," he says, adding: "I don't think it's the role of the prime minister to court the press, and I think it is undignified if it is done too obviously.""I thought too close a personal relationship was probably not for me," he says, adding: "I don't think it's the role of the prime minister to court the press, and I think it is undignified if it is done too obviously."
10.07am: Thatcher and Murdoch shared similar views on the European Union and other key policies, plus her "iconic" status following the Falklands conflict. She also admired "buccaneering businessmen," Major says.10.07am: Thatcher and Murdoch shared similar views on the European Union and other key policies, plus her "iconic" status following the Falklands conflict. She also admired "buccaneering businessmen," Major says.
10.05am: Major says in his witness statement that he saw "at first hand" Rupert Murdoch's relationship with Margaret Thatcher.10.05am: Major says in his witness statement that he saw "at first hand" Rupert Murdoch's relationship with Margaret Thatcher.
"I saw it from a reasonably good vantage point," Major explains, adding that Thatchers right-of-centre views and policies "particularly appealed" to newspaper proprietors."I saw it from a reasonably good vantage point," Major explains, adding that Thatchers right-of-centre views and policies "particularly appealed" to newspaper proprietors.
10.04am: A live video stream of today's hearing is available on the Leveson inquiry website here.10.04am: A live video stream of today's hearing is available on the Leveson inquiry website here.
10.03am: Sir John Major is the first witness of the day. He is sworn in and has taken the stand.10.03am: Sir John Major is the first witness of the day. He is sworn in and has taken the stand.
Robert Jay QC, counsel to the inquiry, is leading the questioning.Robert Jay QC, counsel to the inquiry, is leading the questioning.
10.01am: The Guardian's Lisa O'Carroll has just tweeted:10.01am: The Guardian's Lisa O'Carroll has just tweeted:
Jay currently doing a Kirsty young at channel 5, perching on desk as he chats with fellow barristers. V relaxed as leveson prepares majorJay currently doing a Kirsty young at channel 5, perching on desk as he chats with fellow barristers. V relaxed as leveson prepares major
— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) June 12, 2012— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) June 12, 2012
09.56am: Good morning and welcome to the Leveson inquiry live blog.09.56am: Good morning and welcome to the Leveson inquiry live blog.
Former prime minister Sir John Major, Labour leader Ed Miliband and shadow culture secretary Harriet Harman will give evidence to the inquiry into press standards today.Former prime minister Sir John Major, Labour leader Ed Miliband and shadow culture secretary Harriet Harman will give evidence to the inquiry into press standards today.
Major faced stinging criticism from the press during his seven years as prime minister, before losing the 1997 general election to Tony Blair's New Labour which had won the support of Rupert Murdoch's newspaper titles.Major faced stinging criticism from the press during his seven years as prime minister, before losing the 1997 general election to Tony Blair's New Labour which had won the support of Rupert Murdoch's newspaper titles.
The inquiry is likely to ask Major whether he felt he was harshly treated during his premiership, amid reports that he took newspaper criticism to heart.The inquiry is likely to ask Major whether he felt he was harshly treated during his premiership, amid reports that he took newspaper criticism to heart.
Miliband will also give evidence. The Labour leader and Harman, his deputy, have been fierce critics of News International since summer last year, when public outrage mounted over phone hacking in the wake of the Milly Dowler revelations.Miliband will also give evidence. The Labour leader and Harman, his deputy, have been fierce critics of News International since summer last year, when public outrage mounted over phone hacking in the wake of the Milly Dowler revelations.
The pair will be asked about their own contact with newspaper groups and proposals for the future of press regulation.The pair will be asked about their own contact with newspaper groups and proposals for the future of press regulation.
The inquiry begins at 10am.The inquiry begins at 10am.
Please note that comments have been switched off for legal reasons.Please note that comments have been switched off for legal reasons.