Murdochs face Committee summons

News International Chief Executive Rebekah Brooks has agreed to give evidence to MPs over the phone hacking scandal next week, it was announced today.

But the Commons Culture Select Committee has issued a summons to media mogul Rupert Murdoch and his son James after they said they were not available to attend the session.

The younger Murdoch had offered to appear on August 10 instead.

It is not clear whether the committee will be able to compel the men to face questioning as they are US citizens.

In his letter to committee chairman John Whittingdale, Mr Murdoch senior said that although he was not available on Tuesday, he was ``fully prepared'' to give evidence to the judge-led inquiry announced by David Cameron yesterday.

“I will be taking steps to notify those conducting the inquiry of my willingness to do so,” the letter said.

“Having done this, I would be happy to discuss with you how best to give evidence to your committee.”

The development came after Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg insisted Mr Murdoch should submit to a grilling by the committee if he has a “shred of responsibility”.