Fomer News International chief dismisses MP claims

Former News International legal manager Tom Crone tonight dismissed “unfounded” claims that he had misled MPs.

Mr Crone admitted there were “valid criticisms” of his conduct over phone-hacking, and praised the “good work” of the Commons Culture Committee, which has published its long-awaited report into the controversy.

But he insisted he did not accept its findings that his evidence was “misleading”.

“For the avoidance of doubt, I entirely accept the News of the World phone-hacking scandal is a matter of enormous public importance which needed a full and proper investigation and I in no way wish to diminish the good work undertaken by the Committee,” Mr Crone said in a statement.

“I accept that there are valid criticisms of my conduct in this matter but for the second time in a week, I seem to be the subject of serious allegations which lack foundation.”