Hoon is back in inquiry spotlight

UK Defence Secretary Geoff Hoon will today mount a second battle to save his career when he is recalled to the glare of the Hutton Inquiry spotlight.

The UK defence secretary can expect an even tougher grilling than his first appearance as he faces cross examination from counsel for Dr Kelly’s family, the BBC and the inquiry.

And his hotseat will not have been made any more comfortable by fresh evidence that came to light during the second phase of the inquiry last week.

Second time around questioning of a number of British MoD officials revealed new details that called in to question Mr Hoon’s adamant claims he had no involvement in the naming strategy surrounding Dr Kelly.

The biggest blow came from MoD head of news, Pam Teare, on Thursday, who confirmed the UK secretary of state was present at a meeting on July 9 when the matter was discussed.

Later that day, Dr Kelly’s name was confirmed to a number of journalists after they put the correct one to the MoD.

Mr Hoon, in his original evidence said he was “not party to discussions” about the strategy.

He said he “did not see” and “played no part” in the preparation of the MoD question and answer material for the use of the press office which allowed them to confirm the scientist’s name if correctly put to them.

Lawyers have argued the Q&A led to the public naming of Dr Kelly.

Mr Hoon also said he was “not aware” Dr Kelly was “necessarily” concerned about his identity being kept secret.

In her evidence in chief, on August 18, Ms Teare said she spoke with Mr Hoon on the morning of July 9 as part of her regular briefing.

She said they discussed how to follow up ongoing correspondence with the BBC who were not prepared to confirm or deny the name of BBC reporter Andrew Gilligan’s source even if put to them by MoD.

But under cross examination last week, Ms Teare said she believed the Q&A was discussed with Mr Hoon and others on July 9.