Press Matters Debate

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Andy Burnham

Main Page: Andy Burnham (Labour - Leigh)

Press Matters

Andy Burnham Excerpts
1st reading: House of Commons
Tuesday 1st November 2016

(7 years, 6 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Karen Bradley Portrait Karen Bradley
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I thank my hon. Friend for his comments. That is why we are having a consultation. I want to hear all responses, and I want to look at this in the light of today, not of five, 10 or 15 years ago.

Andy Burnham Portrait Andy Burnham (Leigh) (Lab)
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One common thread that runs between the injustices uncovered in recent years is an unhealthy, collusive relationship between police and the press. Part 2 of the Leveson inquiry was intended to examine that in detail. It is seen as essential by Hillsborough campaigners to bring a form of accountability, and yet the Secretary of State, if I heard her correctly, has effectively announced today that she is consulting on a decision to reject it. Can she not see that that will leave campaigners feeling bitterly let down? Does it not sound for all the world like the second Government cover-up in just two days?

Karen Bradley Portrait Karen Bradley
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I disagree with the right hon. Gentleman for whom I have enormous respect. In this case, he is simply wrong. We are consulting on what is the right thing to do today. He must recognise that there have been significant changes in the way in which the police behave and are accountable, much of which was uncovered during the inquiry on Hillsborough. I want to look at the position today to get the right result for those who have been victims of press intrusion in the past and to make sure that people in the future have the appropriate regulation and the appropriate redress.