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Leveson inquiry: Nick Clegg, Alex Salmond - live Leveson inquiry: Nick Clegg, Alex Salmond - live
(40 minutes later)
1.33pm: The BBC News Channel's Norman Smith has just tweeted:
Speaker has real go at Michael Gove for heckling in Hunt debate and suggests he leaves chamber if he cannot calm down
— norman smith (@BBCNormanS) June 13, 2012
1.30pm: The Jeremy Hunt debate is now under way in the Commons, and Andrew Sparrow is covering it on his Politics Live blog.
Here's the text of the motion:
That this House believes that the secretary of state for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport should be referred to the independent adviser on ministers' interests to investigate whether he breached paragraph 1.2c (giving accurate and truthful information to parliament) and paragraph 3.3 (responsibility for his special adviser) of the ministerial code.
It has been tabled by Labour, but it has also been signed by Mark Durkan and Margaret Ritchie, the SDLP MPs, Elfyn Llwyd, the Plaid Cymru MP, Caroline Lucas, the Green MP, and Angus Robertson, the SNP MP.
1.15pm: Here is Andrew Sparrow's verdict on prime minister's questions, from the Politics Live blog:
So far, Jeremy Hunt survived unscathed. Ed Miliband devoted all six of his questions to the Hunt affair, focusing on the glaring inconsistency (explained superbly in Andrew Rawnsley Observer column this weekend) between Cameron's decision to refer Lady Warsi to the independent adviser on minister's interests but not Jeremy Hunt. But Cameron had a surprise weapon up his sleeve and the quote from Sir Alex Allan saying he does not believe he could "usefully add to the facts in this case" blunted what was otherwise a good performance from Miliband.
Cameron was also affecting at addressing the "coalition split" question. At PMQs it is generally best to tell the truth and Cameron's reply when asked why Nick Clegg was not supporting him - "it's politics" - was a perfect example. Slyly, Cameron also managed to make the point that the Lib Dems could afford to take a different stance because they never had a relationship with the Murdochs.
To be fair to the Liberal Democrats, they didn't have that relationship [with News International] and their abstention tonight is to make that point and I understand that, it's politics.
Cameron did not say that the Lib Dems did not have a relationship with News International because News International considered them irrelevant. But, of course, he didn't need to.
And while we're on the subject of telling the truth, did you notice that Cameron implicitly accused Gordon Brown of lying to the Leveson inquiry. He disguised it as a joke, but the implication was very clear. It would be good to hear Robert Jay probe Cameron on this tomorrow.
1.03pm: Here is a lunchtime summary of Nick Clegg's evidence to the Leveson inquiry:
• Clegg endorsed Jeremy Hunt's quasi-judicial oversight of News Corp's BSkyB bid.
• David Cameron gave Clegg assurances on Andy Coulson after the 2010 election.
• Clegg endorsed statutory backing for the new press regulator and the definition of the public interest.
• Clegg was "quizzical" about the timing of the BSkyB bid after the election following a warning from outgoing PM Gordon Brown.
• Norman Lamb, Clegg's ex-political adviser, warned the deputy PM of "lack of favourable coverage" from News International papers if the Lib Dems opposed BSkyB bid.
• Vince Cable wanted Ed Davey to assume the BSkyB role after he was stripped of quasi-judicial oversight on 21 December 2010.
• The Press Complaints Commission is "toothless" and self-regulation has failed repeatedly, Clegg said.
12.47pm: Clegg has completed his evidence.12.47pm: Clegg has completed his evidence.
The inquiry will resume at 2pm with evidence from Alex Salmond.The inquiry will resume at 2pm with evidence from Alex Salmond.
12.46pm: Clegg says of phone hacking: "I cannot believe that almost amoral behaviour towards helpless people other than in the context of newsroom cultures that were totally beyond control."12.46pm: Clegg says of phone hacking: "I cannot believe that almost amoral behaviour towards helpless people other than in the context of newsroom cultures that were totally beyond control."
Those journalists operated in a culture of "impunity" which was an expression of the close relations between the press, police and politicians.Those journalists operated in a culture of "impunity" which was an expression of the close relations between the press, police and politicians.
"The arms of the state that were enforcing the law and ensuring transparency were actually doing the reverse, so they thought, 'Great, we can do what we want.'""The arms of the state that were enforcing the law and ensuring transparency were actually doing the reverse, so they thought, 'Great, we can do what we want.'"
12.44pm: On his Politics Live blog, Andrew Sparrow has details of a letter sent by David Cameron to Sir Alex Allan about Jeremy Hunt:12.44pm: On his Politics Live blog, Andrew Sparrow has details of a letter sent by David Cameron to Sir Alex Allan about Jeremy Hunt:
Dear Sir Alex AllanDear Sir Alex Allan
You will be aware that I will this week be giving evidence to the Leveson inquiry. As you know, I have decided not to refer Jeremy Hunt to you as I am satisfied that the relevant information about this issue has been established and I am content that he did not break the ministerial code.You will be aware that I will this week be giving evidence to the Leveson inquiry. As you know, I have decided not to refer Jeremy Hunt to you as I am satisfied that the relevant information about this issue has been established and I am content that he did not break the ministerial code.
Separately, I will be outlining to Leveson some of the initiatives this government has taken to strengthen accountability and transparency as well as some areas where I am proposing future changes to the current guidance. These include the conduct of special advisers and the handling of quasi-judicial decisions and I would welcome your comments.Separately, I will be outlining to Leveson some of the initiatives this government has taken to strengthen accountability and transparency as well as some areas where I am proposing future changes to the current guidance. These include the conduct of special advisers and the handling of quasi-judicial decisions and I would welcome your comments.
Yours sincerelyYours sincerely
David Cameron MPDavid Cameron MP
And here is the full text of Allan's reply.And here is the full text of Allan's reply.
Prime minister,Prime minister,
Thank you for your letter of 13 June. I note your decision in relation to Jeremy Hunt's adherence to the ministerial code which is of course a matter for you. The fact that there is an ongoing judicial inquiry probing and taking evidence under oath means that I do not believe that I could usefully add to the facts in this case though I remain available should circumstances change or new evidence emerge.Thank you for your letter of 13 June. I note your decision in relation to Jeremy Hunt's adherence to the ministerial code which is of course a matter for you. The fact that there is an ongoing judicial inquiry probing and taking evidence under oath means that I do not believe that I could usefully add to the facts in this case though I remain available should circumstances change or new evidence emerge.
On the broader issues I would welcome the opportunity to comment in more detail before the new guidance is finalised.On the broader issues I would welcome the opportunity to comment in more detail before the new guidance is finalised.
Yours sincerelyYours sincerely
Sir Alex AllanSir Alex Allan
Sparrow comments:Sparrow comments:
At PMQs Cameron read out the line about Allan not being able to "add to the facts in this case", implying that Allan did not want to be involved.At PMQs Cameron read out the line about Allan not being able to "add to the facts in this case", implying that Allan did not want to be involved.
But the full sentence suggests that Allan would be willing to investigate Hunt's case at a later stage.But the full sentence suggests that Allan would be willing to investigate Hunt's case at a later stage.
12.42pm: Jay asks about Clegg's stance on the phone-hacking scandal.12.42pm: Jay asks about Clegg's stance on the phone-hacking scandal.
Clegg is not sure when he first called for a public inquiry into the affair.Clegg is not sure when he first called for a public inquiry into the affair.
12.41pm: Cameron explained why he was satisfied with assurances about Coulson and that the former News of the World editor deserved a second chance, says Clegg.12.41pm: Cameron explained why he was satisfied with assurances about Coulson and that the former News of the World editor deserved a second chance, says Clegg.
12.40pm: The inquiry turns to the appointment of Andy Coulson.12.40pm: The inquiry turns to the appointment of Andy Coulson.
Jay says Clegg had a conversation with Cameron about Coulson after the election.Jay says Clegg had a conversation with Cameron about Coulson after the election.
"This was an individual we had been highly critical of before the election. I said to the prime minister, I asked him, 'Well, is this the right thing to do?'""This was an individual we had been highly critical of before the election. I said to the prime minister, I asked him, 'Well, is this the right thing to do?'"
12.39pm: This is a good opportunity for politicians to get off their knees," says Clegg.12.39pm: This is a good opportunity for politicians to get off their knees," says Clegg.
It is for politicians to stand up for themselves and let newspapers get on with their own campaigns.It is for politicians to stand up for themselves and let newspapers get on with their own campaigns.
"We get around the country much more than the journalists who constantly pronounce on the state of the country," he adds."We get around the country much more than the journalists who constantly pronounce on the state of the country," he adds.
12.35pm: On Clegg's idea of a clearer definition of the public interest, Leveson says there could be a danger that it would have a damaging effect on use of the definition in other areas of public life.12.35pm: On Clegg's idea of a clearer definition of the public interest, Leveson says there could be a danger that it would have a damaging effect on use of the definition in other areas of public life.
12.30pm: Clegg describes as "preposterous" the suggestion that the Leveson inquiry is having a "chilling effect" on journalists, as suggested by education secretary Michael Gove in February.12.30pm: Clegg describes as "preposterous" the suggestion that the Leveson inquiry is having a "chilling effect" on journalists, as suggested by education secretary Michael Gove in February.
"There's been a slight mawkish quality to some of the more breathless predictions that somehow the press is under the cosh," he adds."There's been a slight mawkish quality to some of the more breathless predictions that somehow the press is under the cosh," he adds.
12.28pm: Clegg says he believes the Leveson inquiry presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to "sort all this out".12.28pm: Clegg says he believes the Leveson inquiry presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to "sort all this out".
He urges the inquiry to put forward precise proposals and says he will work to support them on a cross-party basis.He urges the inquiry to put forward precise proposals and says he will work to support them on a cross-party basis.
"The less room you give, sir, in your recommendations for politicians to make endless mischief about this the better," he tells the judge. "I personally think we must, and can and will do it in a way that celebrates and protects rather than denigrates and demines the freedom of the press. It can be done.""The less room you give, sir, in your recommendations for politicians to make endless mischief about this the better," he tells the judge. "I personally think we must, and can and will do it in a way that celebrates and protects rather than denigrates and demines the freedom of the press. It can be done."
12.25pm: Clegg says he has not heard a convincing case for independent, voluntary regulation of the press. "If someone comes up with that, great," he adds.12.25pm: Clegg says he has not heard a convincing case for independent, voluntary regulation of the press. "If someone comes up with that, great," he adds.
Parliament does need to play a role in making sure there is involvement from groups across the industry, he adds.Parliament does need to play a role in making sure there is involvement from groups across the industry, he adds.
12.24pm: Anything that has to be in a sense processed by politicians in parliament, you have to tread a fine line," Clegg adds.12.24pm: Anything that has to be in a sense processed by politicians in parliament, you have to tread a fine line," Clegg adds.
He describes the Irish model of press regulation as "fascinating".He describes the Irish model of press regulation as "fascinating".
12.20pm: Clegg says there are "two areas where statute may need to play a role".12.20pm: Clegg says there are "two areas where statute may need to play a role".
He says there may be a need for statute to force press groups to join, to deal with the so-called "Desmond problem".He says there may be a need for statute to force press groups to join, to deal with the so-called "Desmond problem".
Statute may also be involved in a "co-regulation" role, adding: "The one-step removed model may be a way to resolve this."Statute may also be involved in a "co-regulation" role, adding: "The one-step removed model may be a way to resolve this."
He endorses the statutory underpinning of the advertising industry regulator, the Advertising Standards Authority.He endorses the statutory underpinning of the advertising industry regulator, the Advertising Standards Authority.
12.18pm: Clegg says a clearer public interest definition would allow the media to be more comfortable in carrying out responsible journalism.12.18pm: Clegg says a clearer public interest definition would allow the media to be more comfortable in carrying out responsible journalism.
He is asked about statutory underpinning of the new press regulator, adding that the way the debate has been cast is "deeply unhelpful".He is asked about statutory underpinning of the new press regulator, adding that the way the debate has been cast is "deeply unhelpful".
"I personally see this issue as whether you need statutory powers merely as a means to an end," he adds."I personally see this issue as whether you need statutory powers merely as a means to an end," he adds.
12.15pm: On his Politics Live blog, Andrew Sparrow is covering prime minister's questions, where David Cameron is getting a grilling over Jeremy Hunt. He reports:12.15pm: On his Politics Live blog, Andrew Sparrow is covering prime minister's questions, where David Cameron is getting a grilling over Jeremy Hunt. He reports:
Ed Milband asks why Lady Warsi was referred to the independent adviser on minster's interests but not Jeremy Hunt.Ed Milband asks why Lady Warsi was referred to the independent adviser on minster's interests but not Jeremy Hunt.
Cameron says there is a key difference. Lady Warsi's case has not been examined by a judge-led inquiry. Cameron says he is happy with the explanation given by Warsi. She has admitted breaking the ministerial code.Cameron says there is a key difference. Lady Warsi's case has not been examined by a judge-led inquiry. Cameron says he is happy with the explanation given by Warsi. She has admitted breaking the ministerial code.
Miliband says Leveson did not ask Hunt about whether he misled the Commons.Miliband says Leveson did not ask Hunt about whether he misled the Commons.
Cameron says he has consulted Sir Alex Allan, the independent adviser, about the need for guidelines on handling quasi-judicial decision. He quotes from Allan's reply to him. Allan said he accepted that it was up to Cameron to decide whether there should be an investigation and he said he could not usefully add to the work of the Leveson inquiry.Cameron says he has consulted Sir Alex Allan, the independent adviser, about the need for guidelines on handling quasi-judicial decision. He quotes from Allan's reply to him. Allan said he accepted that it was up to Cameron to decide whether there should be an investigation and he said he could not usefully add to the work of the Leveson inquiry.
andand
Miliband says Leveson himself said he would not be looking into the ministerial code. Referring to the heckling, he quotes from a leaked email from Desmond Swayne, Cameron's PPS, about the need to heckle Cameron. He asks Cameron to confirm that Hunt misled the Commons when he said he had not intervened when Vince Cable was handling the News Corporation bid for BSkyB.Miliband says Leveson himself said he would not be looking into the ministerial code. Referring to the heckling, he quotes from a leaked email from Desmond Swayne, Cameron's PPS, about the need to heckle Cameron. He asks Cameron to confirm that Hunt misled the Commons when he said he had not intervened when Vince Cable was handling the News Corporation bid for BSkyB.
Cameron says Sir Alex Allan himself has said he could not usefully add to what the Leveson inquiry had done to establish the facts. In Hunt's note to Cameron in November 2010, Hunt said it would be wrong not to follow the proper procedures in relation to the bid.Cameron says Sir Alex Allan himself has said he could not usefully add to what the Leveson inquiry had done to establish the facts. In Hunt's note to Cameron in November 2010, Hunt said it would be wrong not to follow the proper procedures in relation to the bid.
Miliband says Hunt told the Commons he made no interventions. Is Cameron saying a memo to the PM is of no significance? If Cameron's case is so strong, why is Nick Clegg not supporting him?Miliband says Hunt told the Commons he made no interventions. Is Cameron saying a memo to the PM is of no significance? If Cameron's case is so strong, why is Nick Clegg not supporting him?
Cameron quotes from the November 2010 memo where Hunt said the proper procedure had to be followed. MPs are discussing the takeover because Labour changed the law to allow a foreign company to hold a broadcasting licence. On the subject of the Lib Dems, he says they did not have a relationship with the Murdoch empire. They are abstaining to make that point. Cameron says he understands that; that's politics.Cameron quotes from the November 2010 memo where Hunt said the proper procedure had to be followed. MPs are discussing the takeover because Labour changed the law to allow a foreign company to hold a broadcasting licence. On the subject of the Lib Dems, he says they did not have a relationship with the Murdoch empire. They are abstaining to make that point. Cameron says he understands that; that's politics.
12.15pm: Clegg says that greater curbs on the press should be counter-balanced by an instrument that will "enshrine, protect and promote the freedom of the press" in "quasi-constitutional statute". He calls for a definition of public interest.12.15pm: Clegg says that greater curbs on the press should be counter-balanced by an instrument that will "enshrine, protect and promote the freedom of the press" in "quasi-constitutional statute". He calls for a definition of public interest.
12.14pm: On regulation, Clegg says everyone agrees that the current oversight is "discredited ... and the new system needs to be robustly independent".12.14pm: On regulation, Clegg says everyone agrees that the current oversight is "discredited ... and the new system needs to be robustly independent".
12.13pm: The inquiry turns to media plurality.12.13pm: The inquiry turns to media plurality.
Clegg repeats his earlier point that newspaper groups should face competition scrutiny if they organically grow to a sizeable market share.Clegg repeats his earlier point that newspaper groups should face competition scrutiny if they organically grow to a sizeable market share.
12.12pm: Channel 4 News political correspondent Michael Crick has just tweeted:12.12pm: Channel 4 News political correspondent Michael Crick has just tweeted:
Norman Lamb tells me he's written to Leveson about threats from Murdoch people to Lib Dems mentioned by Cable to Leveson, and today by CleggNorman Lamb tells me he's written to Leveson about threats from Murdoch people to Lib Dems mentioned by Cable to Leveson, and today by Clegg
— Michael Crick (@MichaelLCrick) June 13, 2012— Michael Crick (@MichaelLCrick) June 13, 2012
12.11pm: Clegg is asked about a conversation with Vince Cable over the BSkyB bid.12.11pm: Clegg is asked about a conversation with Vince Cable over the BSkyB bid.
He says Cable did not raise the "veiled threats" issue with him, but is now aware that the business secretary had a discussion with Norman Lamb along the lines he referred to earlier.He says Cable did not raise the "veiled threats" issue with him, but is now aware that the business secretary had a discussion with Norman Lamb along the lines he referred to earlier.
12.09pm: Clegg says he finds it odd that a newspaper group can organically grow its market share with no intervention from competition regulators.12.09pm: Clegg says he finds it odd that a newspaper group can organically grow its market share with no intervention from competition regulators.
"That's another example of how the rules seem to eccentrically designed for a fast-growing industry," says Clegg. "That's another example of how the rules seem to be eccentrically designed for a fast-growing industry," says Clegg.
12.06pm: Lisa O'Carroll has sent us this on a memo from Hunt referred to previously:12.06pm: Lisa O'Carroll has sent us this on a memo from Hunt referred to previously:
Jeremy Hunt privately warned political colleagues that News Corp would have taken him to court if he had referred the controversial £8bn bid to take full control of BSkyB to the competition authorities.Jeremy Hunt privately warned political colleagues that News Corp would have taken him to court if he had referred the controversial £8bn bid to take full control of BSkyB to the competition authorities.
In an internal memo dated March 17 2011 and shown to the Leveson inquiry he congratulates himself on seeing off a threat of judicial review and on calming down an "apoplectic" Chris Huhne:In an internal memo dated March 17 2011 and shown to the Leveson inquiry he congratulates himself on seeing off a threat of judicial review and on calming down an "apoplectic" Chris Huhne:
MEMOMEMO
Fortnightly 17 March 2011Fortnightly 17 March 2011
Nothing huge to report on the last fortnight. The News Corp/Sky issues seems to have died completely. Looking back, the fact that we had independent advice at every stage seems to be have have been decisive in heading off any threat of judicial review. Certainly none of the newspaper groups are talking about it now. I did hear that Chris Huhne was apoplectic and advocated going to the media to criticise it – but partly because Don Foster was once Nick reined him in. The point to make to Nick which I have also made to Chris is that if I had referred it to the Competition Commission it would almost certainly have been judicial reviewed by News Corp as being unreasonable, given that Ofcom and the OFT had give it the all clear.Nothing huge to report on the last fortnight. The News Corp/Sky issues seems to have died completely. Looking back, the fact that we had independent advice at every stage seems to be have have been decisive in heading off any threat of judicial review. Certainly none of the newspaper groups are talking about it now. I did hear that Chris Huhne was apoplectic and advocated going to the media to criticise it – but partly because Don Foster was once Nick reined him in. The point to make to Nick which I have also made to Chris is that if I had referred it to the Competition Commission it would almost certainly have been judicial reviewed by News Corp as being unreasonable, given that Ofcom and the OFT had give it the all clear.
12.01pm: This is the first time the deputy prime minister has fully endorsed Jeremy Hunt since the culture secretary gave evidence to the inquiry earlier this month.12.01pm: This is the first time the deputy prime minister has fully endorsed Jeremy Hunt since the culture secretary gave evidence to the inquiry earlier this month.
However, he has not yet been asked whether Hunt should still be referred to the adviser on ministerial standards, which the Commons will vote on today.However, he has not yet been asked whether Hunt should still be referred to the adviser on ministerial standards, which the Commons will vote on today.
11.58am:Clegg says media plurality rules are far too vague and were inserted into the 2003 Communications Act at the last minute.11.58am:Clegg says media plurality rules are far too vague and were inserted into the 2003 Communications Act at the last minute.
He adds that the role of secretaries of state involved in business takeovers should be "tightened up".He adds that the role of secretaries of state involved in business takeovers should be "tightened up".
However, he warns against turning the decisions into "bloodless" deliberations taken by people who are not democratically elected.However, he warns against turning the decisions into "bloodless" deliberations taken by people who are not democratically elected.
11.55am: The Guardian's Patrick Wintour has just tweeted:11.55am: The Guardian's Patrick Wintour has just tweeted:
Clegg says unaware how Hunt was appointed to oversee bid, raised questions,but received assurances that Hunt's personal views not relevant.Clegg says unaware how Hunt was appointed to oversee bid, raised questions,but received assurances that Hunt's personal views not relevant.
— Patrick Wintour (@patrickwintour) June 13, 2012— Patrick Wintour (@patrickwintour) June 13, 2012
11.55am: Clegg says he is still of the same opinion, and that the private messages revealed at the inquiry "do not materially" affect that.11.55am: Clegg says he is still of the same opinion, and that the private messages revealed at the inquiry "do not materially" affect that.
"They didn't actually affect the content of what was known at the time," Clegg says."They didn't actually affect the content of what was known at the time," Clegg says.
"I think on the specific point about how he handled the bid to make sure he was insulated from accusations of bias I think he's given a full, good and convincing account to this inquiry.""I think on the specific point about how he handled the bid to make sure he was insulated from accusations of bias I think he's given a full, good and convincing account to this inquiry."
11.53am: Clegg says he was "operating on the assumption that he [Hunt] would be favourably disposed towards the bid".11.53am: Clegg says he was "operating on the assumption that he [Hunt] would be favourably disposed towards the bid".
He adds that he readily accepted the assurances of O'Donnell.He adds that he readily accepted the assurances of O'Donnell.
I think I was told that there were some comments on the public record from Jeremy Hunt, I did not ask to see those comments myself and I was assured they were not sufficiently serious … that precluded the transfer to Jeremy Hunt.I think I was told that there were some comments on the public record from Jeremy Hunt, I did not ask to see those comments myself and I was assured they were not sufficiently serious … that precluded the transfer to Jeremy Hunt.
11.51am: Lord O'Donnell spoke to Clegg about transferring authority over the bid to Jeremy Hunt "and I asked some questions about that".11.51am: Lord O'Donnell spoke to Clegg about transferring authority over the bid to Jeremy Hunt "and I asked some questions about that".
Then the decision was taken at the end of the day, he says. Clegg says he does not know who made the final decision to transfer the oversight to Hunt.Then the decision was taken at the end of the day, he says. Clegg says he does not know who made the final decision to transfer the oversight to Hunt.
Clegg says he asked O'Donnell whether he could be sure that Hunt would handle the bid "objectively". He was assured that it would be.Clegg says he asked O'Donnell whether he could be sure that Hunt would handle the bid "objectively". He was assured that it would be.
11.50am: Clegg says he was clear that he wanted to speak to Cable first, which he did in the early afternoon.11.50am: Clegg says he was clear that he wanted to speak to Cable first, which he did in the early afternoon.
"I think he quite clearly appreciated that this was a serious issue," he says."I think he quite clearly appreciated that this was a serious issue," he says.
Cable suggested that one solution would be to transfer oversight of the bid to Ed Davey, his colleague in BIS.Cable suggested that one solution would be to transfer oversight of the bid to Ed Davey, his colleague in BIS.
Clegg says he believed that was "unlikely to do the trick," but he did not believe Cable's comments were "a hanging offence".Clegg says he believed that was "unlikely to do the trick," but he did not believe Cable's comments were "a hanging offence".
11.49am: On 21 December 2010, Michel texted Clegg's chief spin doctor Lena Pietsch.11.49am: On 21 December 2010, Michel texted Clegg's chief spin doctor Lena Pietsch.
Michel: Cable's comments are amazing. Incredible. Fred.Michel: Cable's comments are amazing. Incredible. Fred.
Pietsch: Unacceptable. Nick furious obviously.Pietsch: Unacceptable. Nick furious obviously.
Michel: And Telegraph was going to blackmail Vince on this. Oakeshott, Newby, Razzall [Lib Dem peers] all told me it was political and we should sell the Times! Not sure it's justifiable to keep Vince in cabinet though....Michel: And Telegraph was going to blackmail Vince on this. Oakeshott, Newby, Razzall [Lib Dem peers] all told me it was political and we should sell the Times! Not sure it's justifiable to keep Vince in cabinet though....
Michel, later: We are keeping calm and not inflaming things.Michel, later: We are keeping calm and not inflaming things.
11.46am: Michel said in an email that the Telegraph was going to "blackmail Vince [Cable]" over his "war on Murdoch" comments made to undercover reporters, Jay says.11.46am: Michel said in an email that the Telegraph was going to "blackmail Vince [Cable]" over his "war on Murdoch" comments made to undercover reporters, Jay says.
Clegg says he was with David Cameron when they were first told about Cable's comments on Murdoch.Clegg says he was with David Cameron when they were first told about Cable's comments on Murdoch.
11.44am: Clegg is asked if he "reined in" an "apoplectic" Chris Huhne on the BSkyB bid. The deputy prime minister says he has no recollection of this, and Huhne doesn't either.11.44am: Clegg is asked if he "reined in" an "apoplectic" Chris Huhne on the BSkyB bid. The deputy prime minister says he has no recollection of this, and Huhne doesn't either.
11.41am: Jay turns to a 13 March 2011 Financial Times article about a lobbying operation on behalf of News Corp towards Lib Dem MPs. The article began:11.41am: Jay turns to a 13 March 2011 Financial Times article about a lobbying operation on behalf of News Corp towards Lib Dem MPs. The article began:
Opponents of News Corp's bid for British Sky Broadcasting have taken their fight to the corridors of power with a direct lobbying effort principally aimed at Liberal Democrat MPs and peers.Opponents of News Corp's bid for British Sky Broadcasting have taken their fight to the corridors of power with a direct lobbying effort principally aimed at Liberal Democrat MPs and peers.
The alliance of newspaper owners and BT have sent a letter to politicians of all parties challenging the ideas underpinning a remedy accepted by Jeremy Hunt, the culture secretary, to answer regulators' concerns over the concentration of news provision represented by the proposed 700p-a-share bid.The alliance of newspaper owners and BT have sent a letter to politicians of all parties challenging the ideas underpinning a remedy accepted by Jeremy Hunt, the culture secretary, to answer regulators' concerns over the concentration of news provision represented by the proposed 700p-a-share bid.
In its letter to MPs and peers, the group says that the remedy if fatally flawed. If accepted, it would see Sky News spun off as a freestanding, listed company funded by a 10-year contract with BSkyB, with News Corp as a 39.1% shareholder.In its letter to MPs and peers, the group says that the remedy if fatally flawed. If accepted, it would see Sky News spun off as a freestanding, listed company funded by a 10-year contract with BSkyB, with News Corp as a 39.1% shareholder.
People advising the group say that while the lobbying campaign does not mean they have abandoned hope of a legal challenge to Mr Hunt if he allows the merger following a 15-day consultation, it is a stronger option at present.People advising the group say that while the lobbying campaign does not mean they have abandoned hope of a legal challenge to Mr Hunt if he allows the merger following a 15-day consultation, it is a stronger option at present.
"Politics can be a quicker and more decisive path than the law," a spokesman for the alliance said on Sunday."Politics can be a quicker and more decisive path than the law," a spokesman for the alliance said on Sunday.
Michel wrote in an email that Clegg was "quite relaxed" about this. Clegg tells the inquiry he has no idea how Michel deduced his emotions about the Financial Times article; the pair had no conversations about the piece.Michel wrote in an email that Clegg was "quite relaxed" about this. Clegg tells the inquiry he has no idea how Michel deduced his emotions about the Financial Times article; the pair had no conversations about the piece.
11.40am: Clegg says he "very consciously avoided getting involved in the substance of discussions" about the BSkyB bid, on which he had no, and did not wish for, any input.11.40am: Clegg says he "very consciously avoided getting involved in the substance of discussions" about the BSkyB bid, on which he had no, and did not wish for, any input.
11.38am: Jay says that Don Foster, the Lib Dem MP, planned to write a memo to Clegg in support of the bid.11.38am: Jay says that Don Foster, the Lib Dem MP, planned to write a memo to Clegg in support of the bid.
Clegg says he never saw the memo and Foster does not recall writing one.Clegg says he never saw the memo and Foster does not recall writing one.
11.38am: Clegg wanted everyone, including his own MPs, to "pipe down" about the BSkyB bid and let Vince Cable get on with his quasi-judicial oversight of the takeover, he says.11.38am: Clegg wanted everyone, including his own MPs, to "pipe down" about the BSkyB bid and let Vince Cable get on with his quasi-judicial oversight of the takeover, he says.
11.35am: Clegg said he did not believe unfavourable treatment from the Murdoch press was a "credible threat" because those papers had never been favourably disposed to the party previously.11.35am: Clegg said he did not believe unfavourable treatment from the Murdoch press was a "credible threat" because those papers had never been favourably disposed to the party previously.
11.34am: Jay turns to emails between News Corp's Fred Michel and James Murdoch as revealed at the inquiry in April.11.34am: Jay turns to emails between News Corp's Fred Michel and James Murdoch as revealed at the inquiry in April.
Clegg says there was certainly no phone call between himself and Michel.Clegg says there was certainly no phone call between himself and Michel.
11.31am: Norman Lamb, the Lib Dem MP, told Clegg that he had been told that "it would be good for the Lib Dems to be open to the bid otherwise" the party would expect unfavourable treatment from the Murdoch press "and Norman was quite agitated about that", Clegg says.11.31am: Norman Lamb, the Lib Dem MP, told Clegg that he had been told that "it would be good for the Lib Dems to be open to the bid otherwise" the party would expect unfavourable treatment from the Murdoch press "and Norman was quite agitated about that", Clegg says.
11.30am: Clegg says he asked Murdoch at News International's summer party in 2010 about the timing of the bid.11.30am: Clegg says he asked Murdoch at News International's summer party in 2010 about the timing of the bid.
Murdoch gave an answer that was "not hugely revealing," he adds.Murdoch gave an answer that was "not hugely revealing," he adds.
11.29am: Clegg says he was "quizzical" about the timing of the bid.11.29am: Clegg says he was "quizzical" about the timing of the bid.
Gordon Brown told Clegg that "You do realise that this is all about Murdoch, the Murdochs want the Conservatives in government", Clegg says, adding that he did not dwell on it, but then had second thoughts when News Corp announced its bid shortly after the general election.Gordon Brown told Clegg that "You do realise that this is all about Murdoch, the Murdochs want the Conservatives in government", Clegg says, adding that he did not dwell on it, but then had second thoughts when News Corp announced its bid shortly after the general election.
11.27am: The inquiry resumes and Clegg is asked about News Corp's BSkyB bid.11.27am: The inquiry resumes and Clegg is asked about News Corp's BSkyB bid.
Clegg begins by praising Rupert Murdoch's role as an entrepreneur in British media. He adds that, as a liberal, he starts from a basis of concern at the concentration of power.Clegg begins by praising Rupert Murdoch's role as an entrepreneur in British media. He adds that, as a liberal, he starts from a basis of concern at the concentration of power.
He says he was "open minded" about the bid, but sceptical "about the danger of too much power being increasingly held in the hands of too few people".He says he was "open minded" about the bid, but sceptical "about the danger of too much power being increasingly held in the hands of too few people".
11.16am: The inquiry is now taking a short break.11.16am: The inquiry is now taking a short break.
11.15am: In his witness statement, Clegg says there is a danger that lobbyists for media companies have more influence on politicians than lobbyists in other sectors.11.15am: In his witness statement, Clegg says there is a danger that lobbyists for media companies have more influence on politicians than lobbyists in other sectors.
He explains that the media is a "unique" industry and lobbyists on behalf of those companies are in a more privileged position.He explains that the media is a "unique" industry and lobbyists on behalf of those companies are in a more privileged position.
11.14am: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:11.14am: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:
Clegg says editors + owners get privileged one to one access to a top pol to lobby whereas CEO of a large mrfng coy would be met w officialsClegg says editors + owners get privileged one to one access to a top pol to lobby whereas CEO of a large mrfng coy would be met w officials
— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) June 13, 2012— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) June 13, 2012
11.13am: Clegg is asked about the government's statutory register of lobbyists. This was to ensure complete transparency on contacts between politicians and commercial lobbyists who can speak for a number of different parties. He distinguishes between those lobbyists and Fred Michel, the in-house lobbyist for News Corporation in Europe.11.13am: Clegg is asked about the government's statutory register of lobbyists. This was to ensure complete transparency on contacts between politicians and commercial lobbyists who can speak for a number of different parties. He distinguishes between those lobbyists and Fred Michel, the in-house lobbyist for News Corporation in Europe.
Clegg says the government has an open mind about whether in-house lobbyists should be included on this register.Clegg says the government has an open mind about whether in-house lobbyists should be included on this register.
11.09am: In his witness statement, Clegg says he has witnessed a "huge enthusiasm" from national newspaper editors to discuss the Leveson inquiry.11.09am: In his witness statement, Clegg says he has witnessed a "huge enthusiasm" from national newspaper editors to discuss the Leveson inquiry.
He tells the inquiry that this inquiry "weighs very heavily on their minds … there's a lot at stake for them". The Leveson inquiry appears to be of "very very great preoccupation" to them, he adds.He tells the inquiry that this inquiry "weighs very heavily on their minds … there's a lot at stake for them". The Leveson inquiry appears to be of "very very great preoccupation" to them, he adds.
I have been struck from my position, where in government our preoccuption is the economy, employment … I am just struck that you can have discussions with people that that overarching national concern is swept aside by a forensic interest in the work of the inquiry.I have been struck from my position, where in government our preoccuption is the economy, employment … I am just struck that you can have discussions with people that that overarching national concern is swept aside by a forensic interest in the work of the inquiry.
Clegg says he is "umming and ahhing" in his answer so as not to denigrate the work of the inquiry.Clegg says he is "umming and ahhing" in his answer so as not to denigrate the work of the inquiry.
Leveson assures him that he does not believe the inquiry to be "anything like" as important as the economy or employment.Leveson assures him that he does not believe the inquiry to be "anything like" as important as the economy or employment.
"What I would say is that many things can be important all at once," says Clegg, ever the diplomat."What I would say is that many things can be important all at once," says Clegg, ever the diplomat.
11.07am: Clegg is asked about Lib Dem safeguards to prevent the party's "very open, deliberative process of policy-making" being overly swayed by outside interests.11.07am: Clegg is asked about Lib Dem safeguards to prevent the party's "very open, deliberative process of policy-making" being overly swayed by outside interests.
He says it is not up to the leader of the party to rewrite policy, but that it is a co-operative process.He says it is not up to the leader of the party to rewrite policy, but that it is a co-operative process.
"I am very proud of that ... and it's something I will always protect," he adds."I am very proud of that ... and it's something I will always protect," he adds.
10.59am: Jay asks Clegg whether politicians are in danger of "being transactionable" when they have discussions with media executives in a bid to win the support of their newspapers.10.59am: Jay asks Clegg whether politicians are in danger of "being transactionable" when they have discussions with media executives in a bid to win the support of their newspapers.
Clegg says all discussions are a form of transaction, but adds that politicians have to guard against the relationship falling outside the public interest.Clegg says all discussions are a form of transaction, but adds that politicians have to guard against the relationship falling outside the public interest.
10.53am: Clegg had dinner with Michel in September 2010.10.53am: Clegg had dinner with Michel in September 2010.
The pair did not discuss the BSkyB bid, he says.The pair did not discuss the BSkyB bid, he says.
10.52am: Clegg confirms he has met the News Corp lobbyist Fred Michel when he was in opposition.10.52am: Clegg confirms he has met the News Corp lobbyist Fred Michel when he was in opposition.
The pair first met "many many years ago, before I even thought about venturing into British politics," he says.The pair first met "many many years ago, before I even thought about venturing into British politics," he says.
Clegg says his and Michel's children attend the same school in south-west London.Clegg says his and Michel's children attend the same school in south-west London.
10.50am: Jay says that since summer 2011, when the phone-hacking scandal erupted, there have been "even fewer" meetings between Clegg and media executives.10.50am: Jay says that since summer 2011, when the phone-hacking scandal erupted, there have been "even fewer" meetings between Clegg and media executives.
Clegg points out he had a huge burst of meetings over electoral reform, so that would explain the sudden drop.Clegg points out he had a huge burst of meetings over electoral reform, so that would explain the sudden drop.
10.48am: Clegg met Paul Dacre, editor-in-chief of the Daily Mail, on 22 July 2010.10.48am: Clegg met Paul Dacre, editor-in-chief of the Daily Mail, on 22 July 2010.
Clegg attempted to interest Dacre in electoral reform "and he explained to me his concerns about the BSkyB bid."Clegg attempted to interest Dacre in electoral reform "and he explained to me his concerns about the BSkyB bid."
He adds: "I think we made little impression to each other on both points."He adds: "I think we made little impression to each other on both points."
The Telegraph group also raised concerns with Clegg about the BSkyB bid.The Telegraph group also raised concerns with Clegg about the BSkyB bid.
10.44am: Clegg had a lunch with James Murdoch and Rebekah Brooks on 22 April 2008 and another lunch with James Murdoch on 16 July 2009.10.44am: Clegg had a lunch with James Murdoch and Rebekah Brooks on 22 April 2008 and another lunch with James Murdoch on 16 July 2009.
He met Rupert Murdoch for a dinner on 16 December 2009 with Brooks, Sunday Times editor John Witherow and others.He met Rupert Murdoch for a dinner on 16 December 2009 with Brooks, Sunday Times editor John Witherow and others.
"I was at the very end of the table, where the children sit, so to speak," he says."I was at the very end of the table, where the children sit, so to speak," he says.
10.41am: The Guardian's Lisa O'Carroll has just tweeted:10.41am: The Guardian's Lisa O'Carroll has just tweeted:
Clegg met with James and Rupert murdoch three times between Feb 08 and march 2010Clegg met with James and Rupert murdoch three times between Feb 08 and march 2010
— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) June 13, 2012— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) June 13, 2012
10.39am: "If I now meet an editor or a proprietor on my own as a routine matter of course if something is raised that is official government business I will raise that with officials in my private office," Clegg says.10.39am: "If I now meet an editor or a proprietor on my own as a routine matter of course if something is raised that is official government business I will raise that with officials in my private office," Clegg says.
He adds that often these conversations are informal, featuring "humour and gossip".He adds that often these conversations are informal, featuring "humour and gossip".
10.39am: Clegg met Dominic Mohan, editor of the Sun, on 16 March 2010, followed by a 10-minute briefing with Rebekah Brooks and Rupert Murdoch, the inquiry hears.10.39am: Clegg met Dominic Mohan, editor of the Sun, on 16 March 2010, followed by a 10-minute briefing with Rebekah Brooks and Rupert Murdoch, the inquiry hears.
10.38am: John Plunkett has sent us more from Clegg's witness statement:10.38am: John Plunkett has sent us more from Clegg's witness statement:
It is important that consideration is given to the role of the media as lobbyists in their own interest ... Few other industries have something to offer that is of such value to politicians and which – because of its intangible quality as opinion and not, for example, cash, is not susceptible to prohibitions on corruption or graft.It is important that consideration is given to the role of the media as lobbyists in their own interest ... Few other industries have something to offer that is of such value to politicians and which – because of its intangible quality as opinion and not, for example, cash, is not susceptible to prohibitions on corruption or graft.
The media is also unusual in having a direct route to influence public opinion on issues important to the sector ... the editorial line in many newspapers around the role of public service broadcasting often seems to reflect the commercial interests of media organisations rather than the public interest.The media is also unusual in having a direct route to influence public opinion on issues important to the sector ... the editorial line in many newspapers around the role of public service broadcasting often seems to reflect the commercial interests of media organisations rather than the public interest.
Fuelled by the cosy relationship that their editors and proprietors enjoyed with the most senior politicians in the country some newspaper employees appear to have developed a sense of impunity. This was left unchecked because of weak and ineffective corporate governance and politicians were nervous of the implications of taking action. It is reasonable to ask whether the unhealthy relationship between politicians and the media contributed to a culture of impunity.Fuelled by the cosy relationship that their editors and proprietors enjoyed with the most senior politicians in the country some newspaper employees appear to have developed a sense of impunity. This was left unchecked because of weak and ineffective corporate governance and politicians were nervous of the implications of taking action. It is reasonable to ask whether the unhealthy relationship between politicians and the media contributed to a culture of impunity.
10.36am: Clegg says his meetings with media owners were much more frequent in opposition than they are in government.10.36am: Clegg says his meetings with media owners were much more frequent in opposition than they are in government.
In government you are physically "considerably more cut off" than in opposition, he adds.In government you are physically "considerably more cut off" than in opposition, he adds.
10.37am: The inquiry turns to Clegg's meetings with media proprietors before he entered government.10.37am: The inquiry turns to Clegg's meetings with media proprietors before he entered government.
Jay says it is impossible to pick out any pattern from Clegg's meetings, and that they are with executives from across the spectrum.Jay says it is impossible to pick out any pattern from Clegg's meetings, and that they are with executives from across the spectrum.
10.34am: Clegg says if the Guardian had dropped its investigation into phone hacking "we wouldn't be here today". He also praises the Daily Mail for its campaign over two of the killers of Stephen Lawrence.10.34am: Clegg says if the Guardian had dropped its investigation into phone hacking "we wouldn't be here today". He also praises the Daily Mail for its campaign over two of the killers of Stephen Lawrence.
It is one of the great virtues of our press that we've got the campaigning zeal in our press – I think readers like it and it's something we should celebrate.It is one of the great virtues of our press that we've got the campaigning zeal in our press – I think readers like it and it's something we should celebrate.
10.32am: John Plunkett, our media correspondent at the inquiry, has sent us this extract from Clegg's witness statement:10.32am: John Plunkett, our media correspondent at the inquiry, has sent us this extract from Clegg's witness statement:
The media are not and never have been neutral observers of public life … this is entirely legitimate and adds to the public discourse. Newspapers often raise issues that politicians failed to engage with, for example the Guardian's investigation into phone hacking.The media are not and never have been neutral observers of public life … this is entirely legitimate and adds to the public discourse. Newspapers often raise issues that politicians failed to engage with, for example the Guardian's investigation into phone hacking.
Sometimes, however, the influence of newspapers creates an environment where highly emotive and partisan coverage makes it almost impossible to have an evidence based discourse on a policy issue. In these areas, the newspapers tend to present their stance as grounded in public concern. In truth it is often difficult to determine whether newspapers are reflecting or driving opinion.Sometimes, however, the influence of newspapers creates an environment where highly emotive and partisan coverage makes it almost impossible to have an evidence based discourse on a policy issue. In these areas, the newspapers tend to present their stance as grounded in public concern. In truth it is often difficult to determine whether newspapers are reflecting or driving opinion.
Pluralism in media ownership is critical … Media pressure must not tip over into media intimidation and newspapers need to tread a careful line between legitimate expression of forceful opinions and simply projecting propaganda. Politicians … should resist undue media pressure just as they should resist undue pressure from any source.Pluralism in media ownership is critical … Media pressure must not tip over into media intimidation and newspapers need to tread a careful line between legitimate expression of forceful opinions and simply projecting propaganda. Politicians … should resist undue media pressure just as they should resist undue pressure from any source.
Politicians are always going to be under pressure to build relationships with the media. However, we need to get the balance right. Mutual interest will always exist but mutual dependence and political clientelism must be avoided.Politicians are always going to be under pressure to build relationships with the media. However, we need to get the balance right. Mutual interest will always exist but mutual dependence and political clientelism must be avoided.
10.31am: Jay refers to an article in the Sun in the runup to the 2010 election, which he describes as "vitriolic".10.31am: Jay refers to an article in the Sun in the runup to the 2010 election, which he describes as "vitriolic".
Clegg says the Sun put forward "one of the worst political predictions of modern times" when it warned readers to "Vote Clegg, Get Brown" in a move to support the Conservatives.Clegg says the Sun put forward "one of the worst political predictions of modern times" when it warned readers to "Vote Clegg, Get Brown" in a move to support the Conservatives.
10.27am: Clegg is asked about an 18 April 2010 comment piece for the Guardian by David Yelland, ex-editor of the Sun, who wrote that the Lib Dems' sudden popularity could lock the Murdochs out of politics for some time to come. Yelland's article began:10.27am: Clegg is asked about an 18 April 2010 comment piece for the Guardian by David Yelland, ex-editor of the Sun, who wrote that the Lib Dems' sudden popularity could lock the Murdochs out of politics for some time to come. Yelland's article began:
I doubt if Rupert Murdoch watched the election debate last week. His focus is very firmly on the United States, especially his resurgent Wall Street Journal. But if he did, there would have been one man totally unknown to him. One man utterly beyond the tentacles of any of his family, his editors or his advisers. That man is Nick Clegg.I doubt if Rupert Murdoch watched the election debate last week. His focus is very firmly on the United States, especially his resurgent Wall Street Journal. But if he did, there would have been one man totally unknown to him. One man utterly beyond the tentacles of any of his family, his editors or his advisers. That man is Nick Clegg.
Make no mistake, if the Liberal Democrats actually won the election – or held the balance of power – it would be the first time in decades that Murdoch was locked out of British politics. In so many ways, a vote for the Lib Dems is a vote against Murdoch and the media elite.Make no mistake, if the Liberal Democrats actually won the election – or held the balance of power – it would be the first time in decades that Murdoch was locked out of British politics. In so many ways, a vote for the Lib Dems is a vote against Murdoch and the media elite.
I can say this with some authority because in my five years editing the Sun I did not once meet a Lib Dem leader, even though I met Tony Blair, William Hague and Iain Duncan Smith on countless occasions. (Full disclosure: I have since met Nick Clegg.)I can say this with some authority because in my five years editing the Sun I did not once meet a Lib Dem leader, even though I met Tony Blair, William Hague and Iain Duncan Smith on countless occasions. (Full disclosure: I have since met Nick Clegg.)
I remember in my first year asking if we staffed the Liberal Democrat conference. I was interested because as a student I'd been a founder member of the SDP. I was told we did not. We did not send a single reporter for fear of encouraging them.I remember in my first year asking if we staffed the Liberal Democrat conference. I was interested because as a student I'd been a founder member of the SDP. I was told we did not. We did not send a single reporter for fear of encouraging them.
So while we sent a team of five, plus assorted senior staff, to both the Tory and Labour conferences, we sent nobody to the Lib Dems. And while successive News International chiefs have held parties at both those conferences, they have never to my knowledge even attended a Lib Dem conference.So while we sent a team of five, plus assorted senior staff, to both the Tory and Labour conferences, we sent nobody to the Lib Dems. And while successive News International chiefs have held parties at both those conferences, they have never to my knowledge even attended a Lib Dem conference.
It gets even worse. While it would be wrong to say the Lib Dems were banned from Murdoch's papers (indeed, the Times has a good record in this area), I would say from personal experience that they are often banned – except where the news is critical. They are the invisible party, purposely edged off the paper's pages and ignored. But it is worse than that, because it is not just the Murdoch press that is guilty of this. The fact is that much of the print press in this country is entirely partisan and always has been. All proprietors and editors are part of the "great game". The trick is to ally yourself with the winner and win influence or at least the ear of the prime minister.It gets even worse. While it would be wrong to say the Lib Dems were banned from Murdoch's papers (indeed, the Times has a good record in this area), I would say from personal experience that they are often banned – except where the news is critical. They are the invisible party, purposely edged off the paper's pages and ignored. But it is worse than that, because it is not just the Murdoch press that is guilty of this. The fact is that much of the print press in this country is entirely partisan and always has been. All proprietors and editors are part of the "great game". The trick is to ally yourself with the winner and win influence or at least the ear of the prime minister.
The consequence of this has been that the middle party has been ignored, simply because it was assumed it would never win power. After all, why court a powerless party?The consequence of this has been that the middle party has been ignored, simply because it was assumed it would never win power. After all, why court a powerless party?
So, as the pendulum swings from red to blue and back to red, the newspapers, or many of them, swing with it – sometimes ahead of the game and sometimes behind.So, as the pendulum swings from red to blue and back to red, the newspapers, or many of them, swing with it – sometimes ahead of the game and sometimes behind.
Clegg says it was the case that Lib Dems were the subject of "indifference at best and derision at worst" from Murdoch's executives.Clegg says it was the case that Lib Dems were the subject of "indifference at best and derision at worst" from Murdoch's executives.
He suggests the Murdoch press were "going after the man not the ball" when they saw a new player in the field, "the yellow team".He suggests the Murdoch press were "going after the man not the ball" when they saw a new player in the field, "the yellow team".
10.25am: Jay asks Clegg for a "vignette" of his own experience of press attention in the general election.10.25am: Jay asks Clegg for a "vignette" of his own experience of press attention in the general election.
Clegg responds: "Vignette? It's not how it felt!"Clegg responds: "Vignette? It's not how it felt!"
Jay asks about the pre-election TV debates in 2010 the spike in popularity that they brought.Jay asks about the pre-election TV debates in 2010 the spike in popularity that they brought.
Clegg says he was conscious that most people were not aware of he or what the Lib Dems stood for "so widely-watched TV debates were the new bit in that" and that had an effect.Clegg says he was conscious that most people were not aware of he or what the Lib Dems stood for "so widely-watched TV debates were the new bit in that" and that had an effect.
"There was an appetite for something different, and so it was not with hindsight that surprising when an alternative was put forward people responded to that," he adds."There was an appetite for something different, and so it was not with hindsight that surprising when an alternative was put forward people responded to that," he adds.
10.25am: The Guardian's Lisa O'Carroll has just tweeted:10.25am: The Guardian's Lisa O'Carroll has just tweeted:
Clegg WS: some journalists seem to have developed sense of impunity fuels by coat relationships with senior politicians #LevesonClegg WS: some journalists seem to have developed sense of impunity fuels by coat relationships with senior politicians #Leveson
— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) June 13, 2012— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) June 13, 2012
10.23am: Leveson says it is difficult to impose hard law to ensure corporate governance in newspapers, and a flexible approach is more desirable.10.23am: Leveson says it is difficult to impose hard law to ensure corporate governance in newspapers, and a flexible approach is more desirable.
10.21am: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:10.21am: The Guardian's Dan Sabbagh has just tweeted:
PCC is "pretty toothless" and model of "judge and jury" self regulation has failed says Clegg... will he back a 'leveson law' later?PCC is "pretty toothless" and model of "judge and jury" self regulation has failed says Clegg... will he back a 'leveson law' later?
— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) June 13, 2012— Dan Sabbagh (@dansabbagh) June 13, 2012
10.21am: The phone-hacking scandal has exposed a "failure of corporate governance on quite a significant scale", Clegg says.10.21am: The phone-hacking scandal has exposed a "failure of corporate governance on quite a significant scale", Clegg says.
He adds that it beggars belief that illegal activities appear to have taken place on an "almost industrial scale".He adds that it beggars belief that illegal activities appear to have taken place on an "almost industrial scale".
10.19am: The Guardian's Lisa O'Carroll has just tweeted:10.19am: The Guardian's Lisa O'Carroll has just tweeted:
Clegg WS: media pressure mustn't tip over into media intimidation. Press need to tread careful line between opinion and propaganda #LevesonClegg WS: media pressure mustn't tip over into media intimidation. Press need to tread careful line between opinion and propaganda #Leveson
— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) June 13, 2012— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) June 13, 2012
andand
Clegg WS: politicians have to be resolute in standing up to editors and proprietors #LevesonClegg WS: politicians have to be resolute in standing up to editors and proprietors #Leveson
— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) June 13, 2012— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) June 13, 2012
10.19am: Clegg describes the Press Complaints Commission as a "relatively toothless operation". He says self-regulation has been given a number of changes to succeed and each time as "come a cropper". He has not said yet how this should be bolstered.10.19am: Clegg describes the Press Complaints Commission as a "relatively toothless operation". He says self-regulation has been given a number of changes to succeed and each time as "come a cropper". He has not said yet how this should be bolstered.
10.17am: Clegg says he believes the Leveson inquiry will have "quite a dramatic and lasting effect" that will lead to greater distance and wariness between politicians and the press "that will lead to a healthier relationship".10.17am: Clegg says he believes the Leveson inquiry will have "quite a dramatic and lasting effect" that will lead to greater distance and wariness between politicians and the press "that will lead to a healthier relationship".
10.16am: Politicians must put this relationship in perspective, Clegg says, adding that the public now derive their opinion from such an array of soures that the influence of national newspapers is less than many have suggested.10.16am: Politicians must put this relationship in perspective, Clegg says, adding that the public now derive their opinion from such an array of soures that the influence of national newspapers is less than many have suggested.
10.13am: Patrick Wintour and Haroon Siddique have written a new analysis of the rifts between Clegg and Cameron over whether Jeremy Hunt should be referred to Sir Alex Allan, the adviser on the ministerial code. They write:10.13am: Patrick Wintour and Haroon Siddique have written a new analysis of the rifts between Clegg and Cameron over whether Jeremy Hunt should be referred to Sir Alex Allan, the adviser on the ministerial code. They write:
The rift between the Conservatives and Lib Dems over David Cameron's refusal to refer his culture secretary, Jeremy Hunt, to the adviser on the ministerial code has deepened as it emerged the prime minister and his deputy have been at loggerheads over the issue for weeks.The rift between the Conservatives and Lib Dems over David Cameron's refusal to refer his culture secretary, Jeremy Hunt, to the adviser on the ministerial code has deepened as it emerged the prime minister and his deputy have been at loggerheads over the issue for weeks.
Lib Dem sources said the deputy prime minister, Nick Clegg, had repeatedly told Cameron that the culture secretary might have to be referred to Sir Alex Allan, the adviser on the ministerial code.Lib Dem sources said the deputy prime minister, Nick Clegg, had repeatedly told Cameron that the culture secretary might have to be referred to Sir Alex Allan, the adviser on the ministerial code.
The full extent of one of the most serious breaches in the unity of the coalition was revealed as Clegg ordered MPs not to defend Cameron's decision in a Labour-inspired Commons vote on Wednesday afternoon.The full extent of one of the most serious breaches in the unity of the coalition was revealed as Clegg ordered MPs not to defend Cameron's decision in a Labour-inspired Commons vote on Wednesday afternoon.
As the briefing and counter-briefing became more intense, Liberal Democrat sources said they did not recognise a BBC report that claimed Cameron had told Clegg: "Why are you bothering … nobody's interested."As the briefing and counter-briefing became more intense, Liberal Democrat sources said they did not recognise a BBC report that claimed Cameron had told Clegg: "Why are you bothering … nobody's interested."
The sources said Clegg was angry that Cameron had decided to clear Hunt within minutes of the culture secretary giving evidence to the Leveson inquiry a fortnight ago. Clegg believed Hunt's answers showed that questions over his handling of News Corp's bid for BSkyB had not been cleared up.The sources said Clegg was angry that Cameron had decided to clear Hunt within minutes of the culture secretary giving evidence to the Leveson inquiry a fortnight ago. Clegg believed Hunt's answers showed that questions over his handling of News Corp's bid for BSkyB had not been cleared up.
The sources said the unanswered questions included whether Hunt had given accurate answers to MPs over the extent of his lobbying for News Corp, and whether Hunt had adhered to the ministerial code by allowing his special adviser, Adam Smith, to have extensive contacts with News Corp lobbyists.The sources said the unanswered questions included whether Hunt had given accurate answers to MPs over the extent of his lobbying for News Corp, and whether Hunt had adhered to the ministerial code by allowing his special adviser, Adam Smith, to have extensive contacts with News Corp lobbyists.
The Leveson inquiry has said it is not in a position to judge whether the ministerial code has been breached.The Leveson inquiry has said it is not in a position to judge whether the ministerial code has been breached.
Lib Dem sources said their MPs would abstain on a Labour motion in the Commons on Wednesday calling for Hunt to be referred to Allan. Clegg, who is giving evidence to the Leveson inquiry on Wednesday, wants to show that his party did not develop cosy relations with News Corp.Lib Dem sources said their MPs would abstain on a Labour motion in the Commons on Wednesday calling for Hunt to be referred to Allan. Clegg, who is giving evidence to the Leveson inquiry on Wednesday, wants to show that his party did not develop cosy relations with News Corp.
The Lib Dems said they would not be backing the Labour motion because it was for Cameron alone to decide whether to refer someone to Allan.The Lib Dems said they would not be backing the Labour motion because it was for Cameron alone to decide whether to refer someone to Allan.

You can read the full article here.
You can read the full article here.
10.12am: The deputy prime minister is onto relations between politicians and journalists or media groups.10.12am: The deputy prime minister is onto relations between politicians and journalists or media groups.
He advises a "healthy degree of scepticism" and "certain amount of distance" between the two to avoid what he calls "political clientilism".He advises a "healthy degree of scepticism" and "certain amount of distance" between the two to avoid what he calls "political clientilism".
10.10am: Clegg says a "greater respect" from the press for the editors' code of conduct would be a good thing, if that were to be the outcome of the Leveson inquiry.10.10am: Clegg says a "greater respect" from the press for the editors' code of conduct would be a good thing, if that were to be the outcome of the Leveson inquiry.
It would be a "cul de sac" to intervene with regulation, he adds.It would be a "cul de sac" to intervene with regulation, he adds.
10.07am: Clegg says he would be "very wary of going down a slippery slope" and attempting to legislate to separate fact and comment in newspapers, taking a similar position to Labour leader Ed Miliband yesterday.10.07am: Clegg says he would be "very wary of going down a slippery slope" and attempting to legislate to separate fact and comment in newspapers, taking a similar position to Labour leader Ed Miliband yesterday.
That would be "very dangerous," he adds.That would be "very dangerous," he adds.
Both George Osborne and Michael Gove also warned against intervening too heavily to separate fact and comment, in what has become a recurring theme since politicians began giving evidence to the inquiry.Both George Osborne and Michael Gove also warned against intervening too heavily to separate fact and comment, in what has become a recurring theme since politicians began giving evidence to the inquiry.
10.07am: Clegg begins by outlining the rightful role of the media to influence politics. He says, in sum: "Pressure is one thing, intimidation is another."10.07am: Clegg begins by outlining the rightful role of the media to influence politics. He says, in sum: "Pressure is one thing, intimidation is another."
10.06am: Channel 4 News political correspondent Michael Crick has just tweeted:10.06am: Channel 4 News political correspondent Michael Crick has just tweeted:
Nick Clegg's challenge at Leveson today will be to string it out until 12.15, so he doesn't have to go back + sit next to Cameron at PMQsNick Clegg's challenge at Leveson today will be to string it out until 12.15, so he doesn't have to go back + sit next to Cameron at PMQs
— Michael Crick (@MichaelLCrick) June 13, 2012— Michael Crick (@MichaelLCrick) June 13, 2012
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: Nick Clegg takes the witness stand.10.03am: Nick Clegg takes 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.
9.52am: The Guardian's Severin Carrell has put together a list of questions for Scottish first minister Alex Salmond ahead of his evidence to the inquiry. Carrell asks:9.52am: The Guardian's Severin Carrell has put together a list of questions for Scottish first minister Alex Salmond ahead of his evidence to the inquiry. Carrell asks:
• What independent evidence did the first minister have to support his position that allowing News Corporation to take over BSkyB would be better for the Scottish economy and increase the number of jobs and investments in Scottish facilities?• What independent evidence did the first minister have to support his position that allowing News Corporation to take over BSkyB would be better for the Scottish economy and increase the number of jobs and investments in Scottish facilities?
• Did the first minister ask Scottish Enterprise, the government's investment agency, for its views on whether News Corp's takeover would benefit Scotland more than allowing it to remain owned by numerous shareholders?• Did the first minister ask Scottish Enterprise, the government's investment agency, for its views on whether News Corp's takeover would benefit Scotland more than allowing it to remain owned by numerous shareholders?
• Did the first minister consult John Swinney, his finance secretary, or Scottish government civil servants on whether they believed that the takeover was good for Scottish jobs?• Did the first minister consult John Swinney, his finance secretary, or Scottish government civil servants on whether they believed that the takeover was good for Scottish jobs?
• If BSkyB's investments in Scotland were so essential, why did Salmond not issue any public statements in favour of the Murdoch takeover bid or write to Vince Cable, the business secretary, or Jeremy Hunt, the culture secretary, to formally support the takeover in his role as first minister?• If BSkyB's investments in Scotland were so essential, why did Salmond not issue any public statements in favour of the Murdoch takeover bid or write to Vince Cable, the business secretary, or Jeremy Hunt, the culture secretary, to formally support the takeover in his role as first minister?
• If there was no linkage between BSkyB and the Sun, why did he discuss the BSkyB bid with the Murdochs and Michel in the same conversations where the Scottish Sun's political support for the Scottish National party was also discussed?• If there was no linkage between BSkyB and the Sun, why did he discuss the BSkyB bid with the Murdochs and Michel in the same conversations where the Scottish Sun's political support for the Scottish National party was also discussed?
• Did he or the Murdochs directly link or imply any linkage between those two issues in any conversation?• Did he or the Murdochs directly link or imply any linkage between those two issues in any conversation?
• Has he at any time discussed the Scottish National party's proposals to cut corporation tax with Rupert Murdoch?• Has he at any time discussed the Scottish National party's proposals to cut corporation tax with Rupert Murdoch?
• Did Murdoch indicate in response that he would consider moving News Corps or News International's headquarters if Scotland became independent and cut corporation tax and if so, when?• Did Murdoch indicate in response that he would consider moving News Corps or News International's headquarters if Scotland became independent and cut corporation tax and if so, when?
• Did Salmond or any Scottish government minister or official gave a briefing to the media on the economic importance of BSkyB investments in Scotland, as he promised Michel? If so, when and by and with whom?• Did Salmond or any Scottish government minister or official gave a briefing to the media on the economic importance of BSkyB investments in Scotland, as he promised Michel? If so, when and by and with whom?
• When did Salmond first become aware that his parliamentary aide and speech-writer, Joan McAlpine, who conducted and wrote the Connery pre-election interviews for the Sun for free, had been a possible hacking victim of the News of the World? Did he raise that issue with the Murdochs or any other executive in News International? If so, when and with whom?• When did Salmond first become aware that his parliamentary aide and speech-writer, Joan McAlpine, who conducted and wrote the Connery pre-election interviews for the Sun for free, had been a possible hacking victim of the News of the World? Did he raise that issue with the Murdochs or any other executive in News International? If so, when and with whom?
• Which members of his private office or his team of special advisers dealt with Michel or the Murdochs? Did his chief spokesman, Kevin Pringle, take part in any conversations, meetings or exchanges of emails with News Corp or the Murdochs? If so, when and how?• Which members of his private office or his team of special advisers dealt with Michel or the Murdochs? Did his chief spokesman, Kevin Pringle, take part in any conversations, meetings or exchanges of emails with News Corp or the Murdochs? If so, when and how?
You can read the full article here.You can read the full article here.
9.49am: Good morning and welcome to the Leveson inquiry live blog.9.49am: Good morning and welcome to the Leveson inquiry live blog.
The deputy prime minister Nick Clegg will give evidence to the inquiry into press ethics, amid deep coalition tension over the David Cameron's refusal to refer culture secretary Jeremy Hunt to the adviser of the ministerial code.The deputy prime minister Nick Clegg will give evidence to the inquiry into press ethics, amid deep coalition tension over the David Cameron's refusal to refer culture secretary Jeremy Hunt to the adviser of the ministerial code.
Clegg's appearance before Lord Justice Leveson is likely to expose further fault lines in the coalition, and comes as he ordered Lib Dem MPs not to defend Cameron's decision on Hunt in a Commons vote later today.Clegg's appearance before Lord Justice Leveson is likely to expose further fault lines in the coalition, and comes as he ordered Lib Dem MPs not to defend Cameron's decision on Hunt in a Commons vote later today.
Lib Dem sources have said Clegg has been at loggerheads with the prime minister over his handling of Hunt for weeks and had repeatedly told Cameron that the culture secretary may have to be referred to Sir Alex Allan, the adviser on the ministerial code.Lib Dem sources have said Clegg has been at loggerheads with the prime minister over his handling of Hunt for weeks and had repeatedly told Cameron that the culture secretary may have to be referred to Sir Alex Allan, the adviser on the ministerial code.
Sources who spoke to the Guardian said Clegg was angry that Cameron decided to clear Hunt within minutes of the culture secretary giving evidence to the Leveson inquiry a fortnight ago. Clegg believed Hunt's answers showed that questions over his handling of News Corp's bid for BSkyB had not been cleared up.Sources who spoke to the Guardian said Clegg was angry that Cameron decided to clear Hunt within minutes of the culture secretary giving evidence to the Leveson inquiry a fortnight ago. Clegg believed Hunt's answers showed that questions over his handling of News Corp's bid for BSkyB had not been cleared up.
Alex Salmond, the Scottish first minister, will also give evidence on Wednesday.Alex Salmond, the Scottish first minister, will also give evidence on Wednesday.
Salmond was dragged into the inquiry's probe into relations with politicians and the press after he was praised as one of Rupert Murdoch's favourite politicians.Salmond was dragged into the inquiry's probe into relations with politicians and the press after he was praised as one of Rupert Murdoch's favourite politicians.
The inquiry heard in April that Salmond offered to lobby the UK government to help News Corp win overall control of BSkyB, while also having successful talks with the Sun to win its political backing at the Holyrood elections in May 2011.The inquiry heard in April that Salmond offered to lobby the UK government to help News Corp win overall control of BSkyB, while also having successful talks with the Sun to win its political backing at the Holyrood elections in May 2011.
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.