Westminster-based journalist since 1982, Political Editor and columnist for The Independent and former Political Editor of The Sunday Times. He told the Inquiry he recognised that self-regulation had not worked but feared under the more restrictive regime sought by some politicians, important disclosures about politicians and the press themselves might not be made. He was also concerned that statutory regulation could not keep pace with new media technologies.
Editor-in-chief of the Manchester Evening News and Trinity Mirror Huddersfield at time of giving evidence. Was questioned on the Lord Black proposals for self-regulation based on contractual obligations. Decisions on this would not be his responsibility, he said. The decision would be taken by Trinity Mirror's senior management. Gave his view that the relationship with the Press Complaints Commission had worked well for the regional press.
