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Leveson inquiry: Giles Crown, Tim Colbourne, Norman Lamb - live Leveson inquiry: Giles Crown, Tim Colbourne, Norman Lamb - live
(40 minutes later)
4.08pm: Here is a summary of today's evidence to the inquiry:
• Norman Lamb MP claimed News Corp's Frederic Michel indicated that the Sun and Times would turn on the Lib Dems if Vince Cable blocked the BSkyB takeover.
• Lamb said Nick Clegg was "horrified" at account of his "extraordinary" October 2010 meeting with News Corp's lobbyist.
• The lawyer for the family of Sebastian Bowles, the British schoolboy killed in a Swiss coach crash in March, described their distress at media intrusion.
• Giles Crown, for the Bowles family, said they were "very distressed" at pictures published by the Sun, Daily Mail and Daily Telegraph.
• The Sun published a front-page picture of 11-year-old Sebastian after being asked not to, Crown said.
• The Daily Mail and Mail Online were accused of publishing private Facebook pictures of the Bowles family.
• Crown said Sun, Daily Mail and Daily Telegraph clearly breached the Press Complaints Commission editors' code.
• Lord Justice Leveson said he was "concerned" that the PCC asked the Bowles family's lawyer to draft its letter to the media.
• David Mellor said the exposure of his extramarital affair was small price to pay for press freedom.
• Tim Colbourne, special adviser to Nick Clegg, said News Corporation lobbyist Frederic Michel "overexaggerated" an account of their meeting in December 2010.
• A Virgin Atlantic lawyer confirmed an employee admitted to leaking celebrity flight details after a Guardian story.
• John Lloyd, from the Financial Times, said the newspaper industry wants to retain the right to behave irresponsibly.
3.52pm: The inquiry has finished for the day.
3.50pm: Brady is asked whether the Virgin Atlantic investigation was confined to the Guardian allegations. She says at first the company looked across a team of people to find evidence of what was being alleged, and carried that to the end. Another allegation raised by a member of the press "hasn't been substantiated," she says.
Virgin Atlantic has "done various chasing letters" to Big Pictures asking for an explanation and has not had a response, Brady says.
Leveson says this demonstrates "what somebody unconnected with the press or press organisations can do or does do when confronted with this type of problem".
3.45pm: Brady outlines the data protection training given to members of the Virgin Atlantic Upper Class support team, of which the employee was a part.
3.41pm: The employee was then interviewed on 16 April 2012. She confirmed then that she had written the emails concerned.
The employee said she had deleted all the emails she sent from her home account and that she closed the email account.
She believed that the emails "probably did amount to the totality of what she had done but she wasn't sure," Brady says.
3.40pm: The Virgin Atlantic employee who had resigned was still denying the leak, Brady says, but the airline conducted searches of email accounts and spoke to colleagues as it continued its investigation.
3.39pm: Press Gazette sent Virgin Atlantic a further batch of emails on 6 April, Brady says.3.39pm: Press Gazette sent Virgin Atlantic a further batch of emails on 6 April, Brady says.
3.38pm: The Virgin Atlantic employee allegedly behind the emails then resigned. On 5 April the Guardian published the story online and on 6 April on its front page.3.38pm: The Virgin Atlantic employee allegedly behind the emails then resigned. On 5 April the Guardian published the story online and on 6 April on its front page.
3.37pm: Later, after a second batch of information was provided to the airline, Virgin Atlantic reported the matter to the police.3.37pm: Later, after a second batch of information was provided to the airline, Virgin Atlantic reported the matter to the police.
3.37pm: Virgin Atlantic confirmed on 5 April that this was genuine data that must have come from its systems.3.37pm: Virgin Atlantic confirmed on 5 April that this was genuine data that must have come from its systems.
The airline reported the matter to the Information Commissioner's Office.The airline reported the matter to the Information Commissioner's Office.
3.36pm: The journalist also contacted the employee named in the emails, who denied any wrongdoing but reported the matter to their line manager and the press office.3.36pm: The journalist also contacted the employee named in the emails, who denied any wrongdoing but reported the matter to their line manager and the press office.
3.36pm: Brady says the suggestion from the email was that "money changed hands".3.36pm: Brady says the suggestion from the email was that "money changed hands".
She says it was something "we were taking seriously".She says it was something "we were taking seriously".
3.34pm: The journalist sent the press office of Virgin Atlantic copies of emails that suggested the detailed flight listings of the celebrities.3.34pm: The journalist sent the press office of Virgin Atlantic copies of emails that suggested the detailed flight listings of the celebrities.
3.34pm: A journalist from the Guardian contacted Virgin Atlantic on 4 April 2012 about celebrity flight details being passed by an employee of the company to Big Picture paparazzi agency.3.34pm: A journalist from the Guardian contacted Virgin Atlantic on 4 April 2012 about celebrity flight details being passed by an employee of the company to Big Picture paparazzi agency.
3.32pm: Brady says "not even in my wildest dreams" did she believe Virgin Atlantic would be contributing to the Leveson inquiry.3.32pm: Brady says "not even in my wildest dreams" did she believe Virgin Atlantic would be contributing to the Leveson inquiry.
3.32pm: Jillian Brady, general counsel for Virgin Atlantic airlines, is the final witness of the day. Brady is to be questioned by David Barr, counsel to the inquiry, about the leak of flight details for celebrities including Sienna Miller and Ashley Cole to the paparazzi firm Big Pictures.3.32pm: Jillian Brady, general counsel for Virgin Atlantic airlines, is the final witness of the day. Brady is to be questioned by David Barr, counsel to the inquiry, about the leak of flight details for celebrities including Sienna Miller and Ashley Cole to the paparazzi firm Big Pictures.
3.25pm: The inquiry is now taking a short break.3.25pm: The inquiry is now taking a short break.
3.11pm: The reconstituted press regulator should appoint judges, Mellor says, and have the power to investigate.3.11pm: The reconstituted press regulator should appoint judges, Mellor says, and have the power to investigate.
3.10pm: "How could everybody seriously defend one press complaints arrangement where one major owner is out of it for two years? It can't be. It can't be," says Mellor of the PCC.3.10pm: "How could everybody seriously defend one press complaints arrangement where one major owner is out of it for two years? It can't be. It can't be," says Mellor of the PCC.
He says there should be a levy on newspapers to join the body.He says there should be a levy on newspapers to join the body.
3.09pm: The Guardian's Lisa O'Carroll has just tweeted:3.09pm: The Guardian's Lisa O'Carroll has just tweeted:
Mellor says although his sex life splashed all over Sun, it's a small price to pay for freedom of press. It's the price we pay for scrutinyMellor says although his sex life splashed all over Sun, it's a small price to pay for freedom of press. It's the price we pay for scrutiny
— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) June 26, 2012— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) June 26, 2012
3.07pm: Mellor's evidence was interrupted by the confirmation from News Corporation that Rupert Murdoch is considering splitting the company's newspaper and TV/film businesses.3.07pm: Mellor's evidence was interrupted by the confirmation from News Corporation that Rupert Murdoch is considering splitting the company's newspaper and TV/film businesses.
2.50pm: Mellor's private life was exposed when newspapers reported details of his affair with actor Antonia de Sancha and "the wretched Chelsea shirt".2.50pm: Mellor's private life was exposed when newspapers reported details of his affair with actor Antonia de Sancha and "the wretched Chelsea shirt".
Mellor says that was a "total invention" and claims it was "cooked up" by Max Clifford and then deputy editor of the Sun, Stuart Higgins.Mellor says that was a "total invention" and claims it was "cooked up" by Max Clifford and then deputy editor of the Sun, Stuart Higgins.
It was an "inconvenient moment for one's private life to fall out of the cupboard", he says.It was an "inconvenient moment for one's private life to fall out of the cupboard", he says.
Mellor says the press is not running a "morality patrol to cleanse public life" but "the press is running a morality patrol for their own squalid reasons to protect their circulation."Mellor says the press is not running a "morality patrol to cleanse public life" but "the press is running a morality patrol for their own squalid reasons to protect their circulation."
2.45pm: Mellor is asked about press coverage of himself in 1992.2.45pm: Mellor is asked about press coverage of himself in 1992.
In the summer of 1992 he announced there should be a second Calcutt report into the press.In the summer of 1992 he announced there should be a second Calcutt report into the press.
2.45pm: Mellor says the influence of Rupert Murdoch was clear.2.45pm: Mellor says the influence of Rupert Murdoch was clear.
Murdoch was the only media owner whom a minister had to request to meet, rather than the other way round, he adds.Murdoch was the only media owner whom a minister had to request to meet, rather than the other way round, he adds.
2.39pm: Mellor praises BSkyB as a great service and that he admires Rupert Murdoch for setting it up.2.39pm: Mellor praises BSkyB as a great service and that he admires Rupert Murdoch for setting it up.
He adds that it is a shame that people can own newspapers in this country without long-term ties to the UK.He adds that it is a shame that people can own newspapers in this country without long-term ties to the UK.
Murdoch "never really bought into the country", Mellor says, referring to the UK. He believes this has contributed to the "coarsening" of public debate.Murdoch "never really bought into the country", Mellor says, referring to the UK. He believes this has contributed to the "coarsening" of public debate.
2.37pm: Here is Norman Lamb's note of his "extraordinary" meeting with Fred Michel in full, courtesy of the Hacked Off reporter Natalie Peck.2.37pm: Here is Norman Lamb's note of his "extraordinary" meeting with Fred Michel in full, courtesy of the Hacked Off reporter Natalie Peck.
0900 meeting Fred Michel News International. An extraordinary encounter. FM is very charming. He tells me News Int papers will land on VC's desk in next 2 weeks. They are certain there are no grounds for referral. They realise the political pressures. He wants things to run smoothly. They have been supportive of coalition. But if it goes the wrong way he is worried about the implications. It was brazen VC refers case to Ofcom – they turn nasty. Then he talked about AV – how Sun might help the debate – use of good graphics to get across case.0900 meeting Fred Michel News International. An extraordinary encounter. FM is very charming. He tells me News Int papers will land on VC's desk in next 2 weeks. They are certain there are no grounds for referral. They realise the political pressures. He wants things to run smoothly. They have been supportive of coalition. But if it goes the wrong way he is worried about the implications. It was brazen VC refers case to Ofcom – they turn nasty. Then he talked about AV – how Sun might help the debate – use of good graphics to get across case.
James M has met Nick – worth working on him to he could be receptive to case. Times will give it fair hearing.James M has met Nick – worth working on him to he could be receptive to case. Times will give it fair hearing.
So refer case and implication was clear. News Int turn against coalition and AV.So refer case and implication was clear. News Int turn against coalition and AV.
2.27pm: Mellor says it is crucial that whatever comes out of this inquiry should give politicians no opportunity to "slither off into the undergrowth, because slither off into the undergrowth they will".2.27pm: Mellor says it is crucial that whatever comes out of this inquiry should give politicians no opportunity to "slither off into the undergrowth, because slither off into the undergrowth they will".
2.26pm: David Mellor, the former secretary of state for national heritage, has taken the witness stand.2.26pm: David Mellor, the former secretary of state for national heritage, has taken the witness stand.
2.23pm: Jay says that Fred Michel denies any implied or explicit threats or that he linked political coverage of the Lib Dems to the BSkyB bid.2.23pm: Jay says that Fred Michel denies any implied or explicit threats or that he linked political coverage of the Lib Dems to the BSkyB bid.
News International's lawyer, Rhodri Davies, says the newspaper group has had no time to respond to the allegations.News International's lawyer, Rhodri Davies, says the newspaper group has had no time to respond to the allegations.
2.22pm: Lamb has now completed his evidence.2.22pm: Lamb has now completed his evidence.
2.22pm: Lamb says he has been thinking for some time whether to give this evidence to the inquiry. After Vince Cable's evidence – who first raised the "veiled threats" claim – Lamb felt he had to go public with his notes.2.22pm: Lamb says he has been thinking for some time whether to give this evidence to the inquiry. After Vince Cable's evidence – who first raised the "veiled threats" claim – Lamb felt he had to go public with his notes.
2.21pm: Lamb says he never used the phrase "done over" in relation to the conversation.2.21pm: Lamb says he never used the phrase "done over" in relation to the conversation.
2.20pm: Another note followed after Lamb met Nick Clegg to discuss, among other things, the meeting with Michel. It said Clegg was "horrified by what I tell him of Fred Michel meeting" – "We will lose the only papers who have been positive."2.20pm: Another note followed after Lamb met Nick Clegg to discuss, among other things, the meeting with Michel. It said Clegg was "horrified by what I tell him of Fred Michel meeting" – "We will lose the only papers who have been positive."
2.17pm: Lamb adds that he left the meeting "with a very clear understanding that a) they had tried to be helpful in period before the election with newspapers but if things turned wrong way with actions Vince Cable took ... he was concerned that things could change. I took that to mean very clearly that positive coverage he said they had given might change."2.17pm: Lamb adds that he left the meeting "with a very clear understanding that a) they had tried to be helpful in period before the election with newspapers but if things turned wrong way with actions Vince Cable took ... he was concerned that things could change. I took that to mean very clearly that positive coverage he said they had given might change."
2.15pm: Lamb, reading from the note, says that Michel "wants things to run smoothly. "But if it goes the wrong way he is worried about the implications. It was brazen ... VC refers bid to Ofcom, they turn nasty ... How the Sun might help the debate."2.15pm: Lamb, reading from the note, says that Michel "wants things to run smoothly. "But if it goes the wrong way he is worried about the implications. It was brazen ... VC refers bid to Ofcom, they turn nasty ... How the Sun might help the debate."
The final sentence of the note says: "Implication was clear, News Int turn against coalition and AV".The final sentence of the note says: "Implication was clear, News Int turn against coalition and AV".
2.14pm: Lamb says the note would have been made within days, if not within hours, of the meeting with Michel on 27 October.2.14pm: Lamb says the note would have been made within days, if not within hours, of the meeting with Michel on 27 October.
It describes the meeting as an "extraordinary encounter".It describes the meeting as an "extraordinary encounter".
2.12pm: Lamb has recently found a note he took from the meeting. This note was found this morning.2.12pm: Lamb has recently found a note he took from the meeting. This note was found this morning.
He says he did not find the note until this morning because he has had a "very, very heavy workload". The meeting was found by his wife in his notes.He says he did not find the note until this morning because he has had a "very, very heavy workload". The meeting was found by his wife in his notes.
2.10pm: Lamb met Michel in a second meeting on 27 October 2010.2.10pm: Lamb met Michel in a second meeting on 27 October 2010.
Like the previous meeting, Michel did not specify what he wanted to talk about beforehand, says Lamb.Like the previous meeting, Michel did not specify what he wanted to talk about beforehand, says Lamb.
2.08pm: Lamb met Fred Michel, the News Corp lobbyist, in Portcullis House on 10 June 2010 but the meeting had no agenda.2.08pm: Lamb met Fred Michel, the News Corp lobbyist, in Portcullis House on 10 June 2010 but the meeting had no agenda.
The BSkyB bid was discussed "in general terms", Lamb says.The BSkyB bid was discussed "in general terms", Lamb says.
"He put the general case for it being allowed, whenever it may happen," Lamb says."He put the general case for it being allowed, whenever it may happen," Lamb says.
Michel claims not to have known the bid was to be announced until the day before the meeting.Michel claims not to have known the bid was to be announced until the day before the meeting.
2.07pm: Lamb is alleged to have received "veiled threats" from someone connected to News Corporation over the BSkyB bid.2.07pm: Lamb is alleged to have received "veiled threats" from someone connected to News Corporation over the BSkyB bid.
2.06pm: Norman Lamb, the Liberal Democrat MP and a former special adviser to Nick Clegg, is the first witness this afternoon.2.06pm: Norman Lamb, the Liberal Democrat MP and a former special adviser to Nick Clegg, is the first witness this afternoon.
He is being questioned by Robert Jay QC, counsel to the inquiry.He is being questioned by Robert Jay QC, counsel to the inquiry.
2.01pm: Giles Crown's witness statement has now been published on the Leveson inquiry website.2.01pm: Giles Crown's witness statement has now been published on the Leveson inquiry website.
1.04pm: Here is a lunchtime summary of this morning's evidence:1.04pm: Here is a lunchtime summary of this morning's evidence:
• The lawyer for the family of Sebastian Bowles, the British schoolboy killed in a Swiss coach crash in March, described their distress at media intrusion.• The lawyer for the family of Sebastian Bowles, the British schoolboy killed in a Swiss coach crash in March, described their distress at media intrusion.
• Giles Crown, for the Bowles family, said they were "very distressed" at pictures published by the Sun, Daily Mail and Daily Telegraph.• Giles Crown, for the Bowles family, said they were "very distressed" at pictures published by the Sun, Daily Mail and Daily Telegraph.
• The Sun published a front-page picture of 11-year-old Sebastian after being asked not to, Crown said.• The Sun published a front-page picture of 11-year-old Sebastian after being asked not to, Crown said.
• The Daily Mail and Mail Online were accused of publishing private Facebook pictures of the Bowles family.• The Daily Mail and Mail Online were accused of publishing private Facebook pictures of the Bowles family.
• Crown said the Sun, Daily Mail and Daily Telegraph clearly breached the Press Complaints Commission editors' code.• Crown said the Sun, Daily Mail and Daily Telegraph clearly breached the Press Complaints Commission editors' code.
• Lord Justice Leveson said he was "concerned" that the PCC asked the Bowles family's lawyer to draft its letter to the media.• Lord Justice Leveson said he was "concerned" that the PCC asked the Bowles family's lawyer to draft its letter to the media.
• Tim Colbourne, special adviser to Nick Clegg, said News Corporation lobbyist Frederic Michel "overexaggerated" in an account of their meeting in December 2010.• Tim Colbourne, special adviser to Nick Clegg, said News Corporation lobbyist Frederic Michel "overexaggerated" in an account of their meeting in December 2010.
• John Lloyd, from the Financial Times, said the newspaper industry wants to retain the right to behave irresponsibly.• John Lloyd, from the Financial Times, said the newspaper industry wants to retain the right to behave irresponsibly.
12.58pm: The inquiry has broken for lunch and will resume at 2pm.12.58pm: The inquiry has broken for lunch and will resume at 2pm.
12.57pm: Leveson says he is "slightly concerned" that the PCC left it to Crown to write the letter.12.57pm: Leveson says he is "slightly concerned" that the PCC left it to Crown to write the letter.
12.56pm: Crown ends by saying the Bowles family have "no wish to have a fight with the media in any sense" and that they gave evidence reluctantly.12.56pm: Crown ends by saying the Bowles family have "no wish to have a fight with the media in any sense" and that they gave evidence reluctantly.
"They are disappointed that with regard to such an immense tragedy they would have expected greater restraint from the media in how it was reported, and that was not the case.""They are disappointed that with regard to such an immense tragedy they would have expected greater restraint from the media in how it was reported, and that was not the case."
"Additional publicity at this point would greatly aggravate the family's grieving," Crown ends."Additional publicity at this point would greatly aggravate the family's grieving," Crown ends.
12.55pm: Crown reads from the final paragraphs of his witness statement:12.55pm: Crown reads from the final paragraphs of his witness statement:
Edward would like to make clear that he did not object to the media's reporting of the accident in itself, as he recognises it was a tragedy of national significance for Belgium, and also Switzerland. He also acknowledges that the fact that his son, Sebastian, was the only victim with a UK nationality provided the UK media with a reason to focus on the story more than it otherwise might, and to draw attention to Sebastian's death in doing so. Edward observes that the reporting of Sebastian's death had the effect, almost certainly unintended, that he had no need to contact anyone to inform them about Sebastian's part in the tragedy. However, Edward did and does object to the nature of the media coverage and intrusion as set out in this witness statement.Edward would like to make clear that he did not object to the media's reporting of the accident in itself, as he recognises it was a tragedy of national significance for Belgium, and also Switzerland. He also acknowledges that the fact that his son, Sebastian, was the only victim with a UK nationality provided the UK media with a reason to focus on the story more than it otherwise might, and to draw attention to Sebastian's death in doing so. Edward observes that the reporting of Sebastian's death had the effect, almost certainly unintended, that he had no need to contact anyone to inform them about Sebastian's part in the tragedy. However, Edward did and does object to the nature of the media coverage and intrusion as set out in this witness statement.
Edward has agreed to provide this evidence to the Inquiry, on request, solely for the assistance of the Inquiry, and because the incident occurred whilst the Inquiry was under way. Edward and his family are not public figures, but have through personal tragedy been caught up in a public event. The Bowles family have not made and will not be making any public statement to the media in relation to these matters. Their agreement to provide this evidence to the Inquiry in no way should be taken as waiving their right to privacy or their desire to be left alone by the media to continue to grieve over their son's tragic and untimely death.Edward has agreed to provide this evidence to the Inquiry, on request, solely for the assistance of the Inquiry, and because the incident occurred whilst the Inquiry was under way. Edward and his family are not public figures, but have through personal tragedy been caught up in a public event. The Bowles family have not made and will not be making any public statement to the media in relation to these matters. Their agreement to provide this evidence to the Inquiry in no way should be taken as waiving their right to privacy or their desire to be left alone by the media to continue to grieve over their son's tragic and untimely death.
12.54pm: Crown says that newspapers should not be given a "get-out" of publishing private photographs because they appear elsewhere in the media, including on an obscure website on the internet.12.54pm: Crown says that newspapers should not be given a "get-out" of publishing private photographs because they appear elsewhere in the media, including on an obscure website on the internet.
12.52pm: "The damage has effectively been done [when you have first contacted the PCC]," Crown says.12.52pm: "The damage has effectively been done [when you have first contacted the PCC]," Crown says.
I was calling them to try and help but a lot of damage had already been done … the main point to my mind is why clear code provisions hadn't been applied to by the media.I was calling them to try and help but a lot of damage had already been done … the main point to my mind is why clear code provisions hadn't been applied to by the media.
12.50pm: Patry Hoskins asks whether the PCC was helpful.12.50pm: Patry Hoskins asks whether the PCC was helpful.
"I thought they were sympathetic. It was helpful to be able to get hold of someone on a Saturday afternoon to assist in getting the message out quickly to the media," Crown says."I thought they were sympathetic. It was helpful to be able to get hold of someone on a Saturday afternoon to assist in getting the message out quickly to the media," Crown says.
He adds that it was strange that the PCC asked him to draft the letter.He adds that it was strange that the PCC asked him to draft the letter.
"I don't know how they would have dealt with it if it hadn't have been a lawyer on the line," he adds."I don't know how they would have dealt with it if it hadn't have been a lawyer on the line," he adds.
Sebastian's father would certainly have been in no fit state to write the letter, Crown says.Sebastian's father would certainly have been in no fit state to write the letter, Crown says.
12.49pm: The level of media activity outside the Bowles's family home "greatly decreased" after his letter, Crown says.12.49pm: The level of media activity outside the Bowles's family home "greatly decreased" after his letter, Crown says.
12.47pm: Crown says he spoke to the Daily Telegraph editor Tony Gallagher who said the lawyer was "late to the party" as he had known for days there was a British victim.12.47pm: Crown says he spoke to the Daily Telegraph editor Tony Gallagher who said the lawyer was "late to the party" as he had known for days there was a British victim.
Gallagher said it was legitimate to publish the Helena photo as it was taken in a public place and was in the public domain.Gallagher said it was legitimate to publish the Helena photo as it was taken in a public place and was in the public domain.
12.44pm: The Guardian's Lisa O'Carroll has just tweeted:12.44pm: The Guardian's Lisa O'Carroll has just tweeted:
Bowles solicitor: find Daily Mail's assertion that it didn't know photo was of Helena surprising. Original Pic inc her dad and was cropped.Bowles solicitor: find Daily Mail's assertion that it didn't know photo was of Helena surprising. Original Pic inc her dad and was cropped.
— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) June 26, 2012— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) June 26, 2012
andand
Bowles solicitor also says it was evident that the photo was of a grieving child and shd have been obvious or breached PCC code #LevesonBowles solicitor also says it was evident that the photo was of a grieving child and shd have been obvious or breached PCC code #Leveson
— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) June 26, 2012— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) June 26, 2012
12.43pm: The Sun – which did not publish the Helena photograph – say that the picture it used was distributed both by EPA and another global picture agency, Patry Hoskins says.12.43pm: The Sun – which did not publish the Helena photograph – say that the picture it used was distributed both by EPA and another global picture agency, Patry Hoskins says.
12.41pm: Crown says he finds it surprising that the letter from Associated Newspapers asserts they had no reason to believe those in the photograph did not wish to be pictured.12.41pm: Crown says he finds it surprising that the letter from Associated Newspapers asserts they had no reason to believe those in the photograph did not wish to be pictured.
12.39pm: Crown says it was clear to the Daily Mail that those in the photograph were families of those who had died and the young girl – Helena – in the picture is clearly a relative of one of the deceased12.39pm: Crown says it was clear to the Daily Mail that those in the photograph were families of those who had died and the young girl – Helena – in the picture is clearly a relative of one of the deceased
12.36pm: Bannister said in the letter it had now been brought to his attention that Mail Online published the Helena photograph.12.36pm: Bannister said in the letter it had now been brought to his attention that Mail Online published the Helena photograph.
Mail Online says it relied on information from photo agency EPA, and it was unaware that Helena was the sister of Sebastian, Patry Hoskins says.Mail Online says it relied on information from photo agency EPA, and it was unaware that Helena was the sister of Sebastian, Patry Hoskins says.
The website has now taken down the photograph of Helena.The website has now taken down the photograph of Helena.
12.34pm: Associated Newspapers sent Crown a further letter at 7pm last night, he says, as a result of his witness statement to the inquiry.12.34pm: Associated Newspapers sent Crown a further letter at 7pm last night, he says, as a result of his witness statement to the inquiry.
The letter was sent to Crown by Alex Bannister, the Associated Newspapers managing editor.The letter was sent to Crown by Alex Bannister, the Associated Newspapers managing editor.
12.33pm: The Daily Mail replied in a letter on 20 March to say that pictures taken from Facebook were publicly accessible but that they had now removed them from the MailOnline website.12.33pm: The Daily Mail replied in a letter on 20 March to say that pictures taken from Facebook were publicly accessible but that they had now removed them from the MailOnline website.
"I put it that either the settings had been circumvented or obviously private photographs had been published from a Facebook page," Crown tells the inquiry."I put it that either the settings had been circumvented or obviously private photographs had been published from a Facebook page," Crown tells the inquiry.
Mail Online did not take down the Helena photograph, which the family had also complained about, the inquiry hears.Mail Online did not take down the Helena photograph, which the family had also complained about, the inquiry hears.
12.31pm: The Guardian's Lisa O'Carroll has just tweeted:12.31pm: The Guardian's Lisa O'Carroll has just tweeted:
Another bad day for the PCC. It asked friend of family grieving death of 11 Yr old son to draft letter asking papers to back off #levesonAnother bad day for the PCC. It asked friend of family grieving death of 11 Yr old son to draft letter asking papers to back off #leveson
— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) June 26, 2012— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) June 26, 2012
12.30pm: Crown says in his witness statement that there was no immediate response or acknowledgment.12.30pm: Crown says in his witness statement that there was no immediate response or acknowledgment.
12.26pm: Crown then contacted the Press Complaints Commission to express the family's concern about media intrusion.12.26pm: Crown then contacted the Press Complaints Commission to express the family's concern about media intrusion.
A letter on behalf of the family was then sent to the PCC and various media outlets about not contacting them.A letter on behalf of the family was then sent to the PCC and various media outlets about not contacting them.
This was sent to, among others, Daily Mail editor Paul Dacre, Patry Hoskins says.This was sent to, among others, Daily Mail editor Paul Dacre, Patry Hoskins says.
12.24pm: Four days after the accident, on Saturday 17 March, a journalist from the Mail on Sunday turned up at the Bowles family home with a bunch of flowers.12.24pm: Four days after the accident, on Saturday 17 March, a journalist from the Mail on Sunday turned up at the Bowles family home with a bunch of flowers.
Bowles was in tears at the time and told him that he did not wish to speak to journalists.Bowles was in tears at the time and told him that he did not wish to speak to journalists.
The journalist, Matt Sandy, left a note for Bowles saying "telling the world about your loved one may offer you a grain of support" and leaving his contact details, Patry Hoskins says.The journalist, Matt Sandy, left a note for Bowles saying "telling the world about your loved one may offer you a grain of support" and leaving his contact details, Patry Hoskins says.
12.21pm: Patry Hoskins turns to a Daily Telegraph article on Bowles's death.12.21pm: Patry Hoskins turns to a Daily Telegraph article on Bowles's death.
The Telegraph published the photograph and quotations from the online blog that had appeared in the Daily Mail and the Sun, the inquiry hears.The Telegraph published the photograph and quotations from the online blog that had appeared in the Daily Mail and the Sun, the inquiry hears.
12.18pm: Bowles later shut down his Facebook page after he found that Mail Online had published the pictures, which he says were of a "private, personal and family nature".12.18pm: Bowles later shut down his Facebook page after he found that Mail Online had published the pictures, which he says were of a "private, personal and family nature".
This was the "final straw", Crown says. "He was very distressed at this point."This was the "final straw", Crown says. "He was very distressed at this point."
12.17pm: Crown says that pictures used by Mail Online could only have come from Edward Bowles's Facebook page, which he is certain had maximum privacy settings.12.17pm: Crown says that pictures used by Mail Online could only have come from Edward Bowles's Facebook page, which he is certain had maximum privacy settings.
12.13pm: Patry Hoskins turns to the Daily Mail.12.13pm: Patry Hoskins turns to the Daily Mail.
On 16 March 2012 the Daily Mail published an article in print and online about Sebastian's death.On 16 March 2012 the Daily Mail published an article in print and online about Sebastian's death.
Mail Online published the so-called "Helena photograph" as well as family photographs and the picture of Sebastian used by the Sun, the inquiry hears.Mail Online published the so-called "Helena photograph" as well as family photographs and the picture of Sebastian used by the Sun, the inquiry hears.
12.12pm: A Sun journalist, Caroline Grant, later went to the Bowles family home, the inquiry hears. She was polite and "somewhat apologetic", Patry Hoskins says, reading from Crown's witness statement. She passed on her contact details via the local police.12.12pm: A Sun journalist, Caroline Grant, later went to the Bowles family home, the inquiry hears. She was polite and "somewhat apologetic", Patry Hoskins says, reading from Crown's witness statement. She passed on her contact details via the local police.
12.11pm: The Sun was asked by a representative of the Bowles family not to publish a photograph of Sebastian that had appeared online, the inquiry hears.12.11pm: The Sun was asked by a representative of the Bowles family not to publish a photograph of Sebastian that had appeared online, the inquiry hears.
It was made clear that publishing the picture in the Sun was quite different from it appearing online.It was made clear that publishing the picture in the Sun was quite different from it appearing online.
The Sun ran the picture of Sebastian on its front page the following day, Patry Hoskins says.The Sun ran the picture of Sebastian on its front page the following day, Patry Hoskins says.
12.07pm: The Sun did not publish the Helena photograph or pictures taken from a Facebook profile, Patry Hoskins says.12.07pm: The Sun did not publish the Helena photograph or pictures taken from a Facebook profile, Patry Hoskins says.
Crown says the parents of Sebastian were distressed after the website where a picture and quotes had been taken from was shut down because it was the "only available record of Sebastian's final days and hours".Crown says the parents of Sebastian were distressed after the website where a picture and quotes had been taken from was shut down because it was the "only available record of Sebastian's final days and hours".
The parents later retrieved the information, he adds.The parents later retrieved the information, he adds.
12.05pm: Crown says the Sun used a photograph extract from a blogpost by Sebastian on a website set up for the trip.12.05pm: Crown says the Sun used a photograph extract from a blogpost by Sebastian on a website set up for the trip.
He adds that there was no password to shield the website from the public, but adds: "It was clearly a website that was intended for parents and not for the generall public."He adds that there was no password to shield the website from the public, but adds: "It was clearly a website that was intended for parents and not for the generall public."
12.05pm: Crown says three newspapers published an article about Sebastian's death because he was the only British victim. The Sun published a story on the front-page with a photograph of Sebastian.12.05pm: Crown says three newspapers published an article about Sebastian's death because he was the only British victim. The Sun published a story on the front-page with a photograph of Sebastian.
12.05pm: Police had to clear photographers away from outside the home of the bereaved family, Crown says.12.05pm: Police had to clear photographers away from outside the home of the bereaved family, Crown says.
11.59am: Crown says this photograph is of a young girl crying, carrying flowers and with Edward Bowles's hand on her head. Photographers were banned from the property and told not to come within 20 metres of the hotel where bereaved families were staying.11.59am: Crown says this photograph is of a young girl crying, carrying flowers and with Edward Bowles's hand on her head. Photographers were banned from the property and told not to come within 20 metres of the hotel where bereaved families were staying.
He says it is clear that the photograph was taken from a distance and without the permission of those in the picture.He says it is clear that the photograph was taken from a distance and without the permission of those in the picture.
"It is clear that the people in the photograph have no knowledge that they are being photographed," he adds."It is clear that the people in the photograph have no knowledge that they are being photographed," he adds.
11.58am: The Bowles family was informed at lunchtime on 14 March 2012 that Sebastian had not survived the crash, the inquiry hears. They were soon taken to the scene of the crash where a photograph, called the "Helena photograph", was taken on private property.11.58am: The Bowles family was informed at lunchtime on 14 March 2012 that Sebastian had not survived the crash, the inquiry hears. They were soon taken to the scene of the crash where a photograph, called the "Helena photograph", was taken on private property.
11.54am: Giles Crown, the solicitor for the family of Sebastian Bowles, the British schoolboy who was killed in a Swiss coach crash in March, is the next witness.11.54am: Giles Crown, the solicitor for the family of Sebastian Bowles, the British schoolboy who was killed in a Swiss coach crash in March, is the next witness.
He will be questioned by Carine Patry Hoskins, counsel to the inquiry.He will be questioned by Carine Patry Hoskins, counsel to the inquiry.
11.53am: Colbourne has finished his evidence.11.53am: Colbourne has finished his evidence.
11.53am: Colbourne says that he scrupulously records "action points" in his notes and there were none taken from his meeting with Michel.11.53am: Colbourne says that he scrupulously records "action points" in his notes and there were none taken from his meeting with Michel.
11.52am: The Guardian's Lisa O'Carroll has just tweeted:11.52am: The Guardian's Lisa O'Carroll has just tweeted:
Colbourne says News corp lobbyist Fred Michel's email note of a meeting re getting labour on side for Sky bid was made up #levesonColbourne says News corp lobbyist Fred Michel's email note of a meeting re getting labour on side for Sky bid was made up #leveson
— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) June 26, 2012— lisa o'carroll (@lisaocarroll) June 26, 2012
11.46am: Colbourne says he has no recollection of a discussion of the importance of getting Labour to back the bid, as was later relayed in a memo from Michel to James Murdoch.11.46am: Colbourne says he has no recollection of a discussion of the importance of getting Labour to back the bid, as was later relayed in a memo from Michel to James Murdoch.
Colbourne says he "completely rejects" the suggestion he was offering strategic advice to Michel.Colbourne says he "completely rejects" the suggestion he was offering strategic advice to Michel.
In this case I suspect a passing reference has been overinterpreted and overexaggerated in Mr Michel's record … and, as I say, I have no specific recollection of it being discussed.In this case I suspect a passing reference has been overinterpreted and overexaggerated in Mr Michel's record … and, as I say, I have no specific recollection of it being discussed.
11.44am: Colbourne says he was not entirely surprised that Michel tried to bend his ear on BSkyB. Michel asked if he was aware of the status of the bid inside government. Colbourne says he was "pretty sketchy" about the process.11.44am: Colbourne says he was not entirely surprised that Michel tried to bend his ear on BSkyB. Michel asked if he was aware of the status of the bid inside government. Colbourne says he was "pretty sketchy" about the process.
11.42am: Colbourne says he would not have agreed to meet Michel if the BSkyB bid was on the agenda.11.42am: Colbourne says he would not have agreed to meet Michel if the BSkyB bid was on the agenda.
He agreed to see the News Corp lobbyist at a meeting in December 2010.He agreed to see the News Corp lobbyist at a meeting in December 2010.
11.40am: Michel was inquiring on 17 November 2010 about the Hargreaves review of copyright and the Digital Economy Act.11.40am: Michel was inquiring on 17 November 2010 about the Hargreaves review of copyright and the Digital Economy Act.
11.40am: Jay asks about an email received by Colbourne from Fred Michel, the News Corp lobbyist. It came "out of the blue", says Colbourne.11.40am: Jay asks about an email received by Colbourne from Fred Michel, the News Corp lobbyist. It came "out of the blue", says Colbourne.
11.39am: Clegg appointed Colbourne to the special adviser post in August 2010. In December 2010 he was responsible for four government ministries, including the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.11.39am: Clegg appointed Colbourne to the special adviser post in August 2010. In December 2010 he was responsible for four government ministries, including the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.
11.38am: Tim Colbourne, the special adviser to deputy prime minister Nick Clegg, is the second witness of the day.11.38am: Tim Colbourne, the special adviser to deputy prime minister Nick Clegg, is the second witness of the day.
Robert Jay QC, counsel to the inquiry, is leading the questioning of Colbourne after leaving yesterday to his colleagues.Robert Jay QC, counsel to the inquiry, is leading the questioning of Colbourne after leaving yesterday to his colleagues.
11.30am: Lloyd has finished his evidence and the inquiry is taking a short break.11.30am: Lloyd has finished his evidence and the inquiry is taking a short break.
11.29am: Statutory underpinning has not meant that the BBC has become a government voice or made it more difficult to do serious, investigative journalism, Lloyd says.11.29am: Statutory underpinning has not meant that the BBC has become a government voice or made it more difficult to do serious, investigative journalism, Lloyd says.
There is this strong underpinning in the newspaper industry of a dislike of being marshalled into the same kind of more responsible corrals into which other professions are accustomed to work.There is this strong underpinning in the newspaper industry of a dislike of being marshalled into the same kind of more responsible corrals into which other professions are accustomed to work.
Leveson assures Lloyd he has absolutely understood that last point.Leveson assures Lloyd he has absolutely understood that last point.
11.28am: Nearly all newspapers journalists have a "built-in aversion" to anything that infringes their right to behave irresponsibly, Lloyd says. This is an emotional rather than intellectual response, he adds.11.28am: Nearly all newspapers journalists have a "built-in aversion" to anything that infringes their right to behave irresponsibly, Lloyd says. This is an emotional rather than intellectual response, he adds.
11.26am: Lloyd says there are two ways to bring newspapers into the new press regulator: the "carrot and stick approach"; or statute.11.26am: Lloyd says there are two ways to bring newspapers into the new press regulator: the "carrot and stick approach"; or statute.
11.20am: The reconstituted Press Complaints Commission "should at least attempt" to settle privacy and defamation disputes before they reach the courts, Lloyd says. He thinks this is feasible. On sanctions, he calls for corrections and clarifications to have as much prominence as the original publication.11.20am: The reconstituted Press Complaints Commission "should at least attempt" to settle privacy and defamation disputes before they reach the courts, Lloyd says. He thinks this is feasible. On sanctions, he calls for corrections and clarifications to have as much prominence as the original publication.
11.10am: Lloyd says a number of non-governental organisations and charities, such as Full Fact, have taken up a watchdog role in relation to the media.11.10am: Lloyd says a number of non-governental organisations and charities, such as Full Fact, have taken up a watchdog role in relation to the media.
11.09am: There is no general meeting place for journalists to discuss ethics and standards, Lloyd says.11.09am: There is no general meeting place for journalists to discuss ethics and standards, Lloyd says.
He adds that he has tried extremely hard to get editors to give talks to the Reuters Institute of Journalism and "they simply will not come".He adds that he has tried extremely hard to get editors to give talks to the Reuters Institute of Journalism and "they simply will not come".
Some editors say there is no point giving a talk because it would be a "talk of the death", he adds.Some editors say there is no point giving a talk because it would be a "talk of the death", he adds.
11.02am: Lloyd says that journalists' insistence that their work is a trade, not a profession, is partly a defence against the possibility that they could be struck off by a standards body.11.02am: Lloyd says that journalists' insistence that their work is a trade, not a profession, is partly a defence against the possibility that they could be struck off by a standards body.
He adds that if journalists believe they are serving an editor or proprietor, they are less likely to stick to an ethical code.He adds that if journalists believe they are serving an editor or proprietor, they are less likely to stick to an ethical code.
11.01am: Lloyd praises the PCC code, but says it had little impact in the day-to-day life of most newspapers.11.01am: Lloyd praises the PCC code, but says it had little impact in the day-to-day life of most newspapers.
He adds that if journalists believe they are serving an editor or proprietor, they are less likely to stick to an ethical code.He adds that if journalists believe they are serving an editor or proprietor, they are less likely to stick to an ethical code.
10.48am: Lloyd says that politicians and their spin doctors believe they have been forced to defend themselves from a press "which has become ruthless". They do this by trying to keep editors and proprietors happy, he says, describing Tony Blair and Alastair Campbell as chief proponents of this school of PR.10.48am: Lloyd says that politicians and their spin doctors believe they have been forced to defend themselves from a press "which has become ruthless". They do this by trying to keep editors and proprietors happy, he says, describing Tony Blair and Alastair Campbell as chief proponents of this school of PR.
10.39am: The British way of approaching events has become "overly cynical", reducing them to "poltical calculations", Lloyd says.10.39am: The British way of approaching events has become "overly cynical", reducing them to "poltical calculations", Lloyd says.
"I think in this country we're fortunate to have a public broadcaster which, by and large, reports in good faith and, to an extent at least, avoids the pitfalls of cynicism," he adds, referring to the BBC."I think in this country we're fortunate to have a public broadcaster which, by and large, reports in good faith and, to an extent at least, avoids the pitfalls of cynicism," he adds, referring to the BBC.
10.35am: Lloyd describes as "oppressive" any attempts to enforce the separation of fact and comment in newspapers.10.35am: Lloyd describes as "oppressive" any attempts to enforce the separation of fact and comment in newspapers.
10.28am: Barr asks whether there has been a trend towards fusing fact and comment in political reporting.10.28am: Barr asks whether there has been a trend towards fusing fact and comment in political reporting.
Lloyd agrees, pointing to the Times which was famed for its straight reportage of parliament and now includes more commentary. In most reportage nowadays the reader can guess the political leaning of the journalist, he adds.Lloyd agrees, pointing to the Times which was famed for its straight reportage of parliament and now includes more commentary. In most reportage nowadays the reader can guess the political leaning of the journalist, he adds.
Lloyd says it is unlikely that reports these days are more inaccurate as a result because facts are easier to check.Lloyd says it is unlikely that reports these days are more inaccurate as a result because facts are easier to check.
10.24am: Lloyd says a joke among journalists is "comment is free, but facts are expensive".10.24am: Lloyd says a joke among journalists is "comment is free, but facts are expensive".
"The trend in newspapers which are increasingly cash-strapped does tend towards commentary and light journalism," he adds. "I think the trend towards commentary of various kinds will continue.""The trend in newspapers which are increasingly cash-strapped does tend towards commentary and light journalism," he adds. "I think the trend towards commentary of various kinds will continue."
10.23am: Leveson and Lloyd are discussing the financial hard times faced by British national newspapers.10.23am: Leveson and Lloyd are discussing the financial hard times faced by British national newspapers.
Leveson asks whether it is not "rather concerning" that proprietors' main interest in keeping their newspapers is profit, and whether this leads to a "race to the bottom" where certain types of stories are chosen because they will sell more copies.Leveson asks whether it is not "rather concerning" that proprietors' main interest in keeping their newspapers is profit, and whether this leads to a "race to the bottom" where certain types of stories are chosen because they will sell more copies.
Lloyd says that is the model of the tabloids.Lloyd says that is the model of the tabloids.
10.15am: The French press has been "over-deferential" in the past, Lloyd says, whereas the British press is much more fact-based and "scandal-based".10.15am: The French press has been "over-deferential" in the past, Lloyd says, whereas the British press is much more fact-based and "scandal-based".
10.13am: The private lives of politicians in France could "enjoy an immunity" from newspapers until the advent of the internet, Lloyd says. The lack of governance online has forced the French press to move into a "transitional phase" where they are publishing more details than previously about the private lives of public figures.10.13am: The private lives of politicians in France could "enjoy an immunity" from newspapers until the advent of the internet, Lloyd says. The lack of governance online has forced the French press to move into a "transitional phase" where they are publishing more details than previously about the private lives of public figures.
10.10am: Lloyd says that in France there is more "entanglement" between politicians and journalists. In the US, he says, there is much less. The UK is somewhere in between these two cultures.10.10am: Lloyd says that in France there is more "entanglement" between politicians and journalists. In the US, he says, there is much less. The UK is somewhere in between these two cultures.
10.04am: John Lloyd, of the Financial Times, is the first witness of the day.10.04am: John Lloyd, of the Financial Times, is the first witness of the day.
He is being questioned by David Barr, counsel to the inquiry.He is being questioned by David Barr, counsel to the inquiry.
9.57am: Good morning and welcome to the Leveson inquiry live blog.9.57am: Good morning and welcome to the Leveson inquiry live blog.
The lawyer for the family of a British schoolboy killed in the Swiss coach crash will give evidence about media intrusion following the tragedy in March. Giles Crown is solicitor to the family of Sebastian Bowles, 11, who was among the 22 children who died after the accident.The lawyer for the family of a British schoolboy killed in the Swiss coach crash will give evidence about media intrusion following the tragedy in March. Giles Crown is solicitor to the family of Sebastian Bowles, 11, who was among the 22 children who died after the accident.
The Press Complaints Commission intervened on behalf of the Bowles family following the accident after complaints about journalists and photographers seeking pictures and interviews outside their home in Belgium. Some private photographs were said to have been used without permission from the Facebook profile of Edward Bowles, the father of Sebastian.The Press Complaints Commission intervened on behalf of the Bowles family following the accident after complaints about journalists and photographers seeking pictures and interviews outside their home in Belgium. Some private photographs were said to have been used without permission from the Facebook profile of Edward Bowles, the father of Sebastian.
The inquiry will also hear from Jillian Brady, general counsel for Virgin Atlantic airlines, about the leak of flight details for celebrities including Sienna Miller and Ashley Cole to the paparazzi firm Big Pictures.The inquiry will also hear from Jillian Brady, general counsel for Virgin Atlantic airlines, about the leak of flight details for celebrities including Sienna Miller and Ashley Cole to the paparazzi firm Big Pictures.
Also appearing are Tim Colbourne, special adviser to deputy prime minister Nick Clegg, and Norman Lamb, the deputy PM's former aide. Both are likely to be asked about the claims – first made by Vince Cable and supported by Clegg earlier this month – that someone linked to News International made "veiled threats" that the Lib Dems would be "done over" if it did not back Rupert Murdoch's bid for the remaining shares in BSkyB.Also appearing are Tim Colbourne, special adviser to deputy prime minister Nick Clegg, and Norman Lamb, the deputy PM's former aide. Both are likely to be asked about the claims – first made by Vince Cable and supported by Clegg earlier this month – that someone linked to News International made "veiled threats" that the Lib Dems would be "done over" if it did not back Rupert Murdoch's bid for the remaining shares in BSkyB.
John Lloyd, from the Financial Times, will appear as well as former heritage secretary David Mellor, who claimed he was hounded out of office by the tabloid press.John Lloyd, from the Financial Times, will appear as well as former heritage secretary David Mellor, who claimed he was hounded out of office by the tabloid press.