This blog likes to keep a close eye on Rupert Murdoch, and for about ten years I have pursued details about his relationship with politicians through the Freedom of Information Act. Earlier this week, I pointed out that the real issue in the News of the World phone tapping saga is the dealings between the police and News International, not to mention News International and the Tory party.
Now, with the Standards and Privileges Committee launching another fresh inquiry into the affair, there are demands for Rupert Murdoch to be called to give evidence. The NotW has hit out today with a statement describing the saga as “intensely partisan” and the line is that this is Labour MPs having fun. But my sense is that at long last, and very slowly, Murdoch’s influence may be very slightly waning in Westminster. True or not, if Murdoch is called, this would be the first time any real accountability has been applied to Murdoch by a British body politic over which he enjoys such influence.