Headline: Actor Steve Coogan Demands Further Action after Prince Harry’s Phone Hacking Victory
Subheading: Coogan urges independent regulation of the press following High Court ruling
Actor Steve Coogan, a victim of phone hacking himself, has voiced his belief that the recent High Court ruling in Prince Harry’s phone hacking case against Mirror Group Newspapers is just the tip of the iceberg in exposing the widespread contempt newspaper editors have for the Leveson Inquiry. Coogan, an outspoken supporter of press accountability, calls for proper, independent regulation to hold them responsible for their actions.
Prince Harry achieved a significant victory in his case against Mirror Group Newspapers, as evidence revealed “widespread and habitual” use of phone hacking. Coogan highlights the urgent need for the police to thoroughly investigate these criminal acts, including instances of perjury. The actor also emphasizes the necessity of resuming the abandoned second part of the Leveson Inquiry, raising questions about Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer’s position on the matter.
The Leveson Inquiry, which initially exposed the close ties between politicians and the press, recommended the establishment of a new self-regulated body independent of serving editors, government, and business. Coogan criticizes the current regulator, the Independent Press Standards Organisation (Ipso), for being “run by the press.” However, Sir Alan Moses, the former chair of Ipso, defends the organization’s independence.
Former Daily Mirror editor Piers Morgan, who has repeatedly denied involvement in phone hacking, recently addressed the judge’s comments on the case. However, Coogan argues that Morgan’s statement fails to adequately address the judge’s concerns.
Coogan’s remarks reaffirm his commitment to fighting for a media landscape that is accountable and transparent. As the fallout from Prince Harry’s case continues, his insistence on proper regulation and investigations serves as a rallying cry for those seeking justice in the face of media abuse.
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