Public Confidence in the Media and Police

Ian C. Lucas Excerpts

Wednesday 20th July 2011 Commons Chamber

[The Prime Minister]

I have finally received an apology—and the Chancellor has too—although it took a while, for the appalling things that were done. This was a special adviser who was sitting around casting appalling aspersions on people who were then on the Opposition Front Bench. When you compare that conduct with the conduct at No. 10 Downing street of Andy Coulson—about whom, in his time at work, no one is making a complaint—it speaks volumes.

[Ian Lucas (Wrexham) (Lab)]

Did the Prime Minister, when he was Leader of the Opposition, discuss with John Yates the issue of phone hacking?

[The Prime Minister]

As I have said, I cannot remember every conversation that I have ever had with John Yates. I did meet him in opposition, but I cannot remember how many times I met him. I have met him many more times in government, and predominantly what I have discussed with him is the issue of terrorism.