Phone hacking: James Murdoch gives evidence at Leveson Inquiry

Phone hacking: James Murdoch gives evidence at Leveson Inquiry

James Murdoch has begun giving evidence at the Leveson Inquiry where he is expected to be questioned over his stewardship of News International during the phone hacking scandal.

James Murdoch arriving at the Leveson Inquiry today (Picture: Getty)


In initial exchanges with lead counsel Robert Jay, Mr Murdoch, the son of News Corporation chairman and chief executive Rupert, reiterated he was not aware the illegal interception of voicemails went beyond one 'rogue reporter'.

Two News of the World executives claim they warned Mr Murdoch Jnr in June 2008 that the practice was not restricted to former royal editor Clive Goodman, who was jailed in January 2007.
Protesters outside the Leveson Inquiry (Picture: EPA)

But Mr Murdoch Jnr told the inquiry he was not aware of the notorious 'for Neville' email in 2008.

Mr Murdoch Jnr said he resigned as chairman of BSkyB earlier this month - having resigned as executive chairman of News International in February - to avoid become a 'lightning rod' for the broadcaster.

He has also been asked about the management culture at the News of the World, as well as legal compliance issues.
James and Rupert Murdoch appearing before MPs on the Commons Culture, Media and Sport Committee last year (Picture: PA)

Mr Murdoch Jnr, 39, has already admitted sharing the blame for not acting sooner but denied turning a 'blind eye'.

The News of the World was closed last July after revelations it had listened to the voicemails of murdered schoolgirl Milly Dowler.

Last year Mr Murdoch and his father faced tough questioning before MPs on the Commons Culture, Media and Sport Committee in an appearance in which Mr Murdoch Snr had a plate with shaving foam pushed into his face by protester Jonnie Marbles.
Rupert Murdoch leaves his home in Mayfair, central London, as his son James gives evidence at the Leveson Inquiry (Picture: PA)

Mr Murdoch Snr is due to appear before the inquiry on Wednesday and Thursday.

The Leveson Inquiry is currently examining the relationship between the media and politicians, having gathered evidence on unethical and possibly illegal behaviour by journalists and relations between the police and journalists.

The second part of the inquiry at the Royal Courts of Justice in London concerning unlawful activities by journalists will not begin until police investigations into alleged phone hacking and corrupt payments to police are completed and any prosecutions have concluded.

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