Britain’s top-selling newspaper was sacrificed to stop the toxicity from the phone
hacking scandal infecting the rest of the Murdoch empire. But it is looking more likely by the day that the News of the World closure will have been in vain.
MPs have now have James Murdoch clearly in their sights as they continue to dig down into details of decision-making at News International. He is almost certain to be recalled for a grilling after two senior executives openly contradicted evidence the company chairman gave to the Commons two months ago.
Former legal manager Tom Crone today told the Commons culture committee he was “certain” he told Murdoch about an email which suggested illegal interception of voicemail messages was more widespread than first thought. He was backed by ex-NotW Editor Colin Myler when he insisted he spent about 15 minutes discussing it with Murdoch. It’s now a clear case of their word against his – and the media boss is certain to be recalled to explain the conflict to MPs.
The whole focus of the scandal has now switched from the allegedly routine eaves-dropping on private phone messages (yes, we’re all pretty clear that it happened now) to whether bosses mounted a cover up.
Comments
Join the debate for just $5 for 3 months
Be part of the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting your first three months for $5.
UNLOCK ACCESS Just $5 for 3 monthsAlready a subscriber? Log in