I see no prospect of the current spate of ill-feeling towards me improving in the coming weeks and months and thus I have resigned from from my current position with immediate effect.
‘I saw senior figures from News International providing evidence that the misbehaviour was confined to a 'rogue few' and not known about by the people at the top.’
I saw senior figures from News International providing evidence that the misbehaviour was confined to a 'rogue few' and not known about by the people at the top. I'm very sorry to have been caught up in this situation, however I am very proud about having been part of the team since I took over this job. Everything is at risk. Unfortunately, continued coverage of events does not permit me to to give the 100% needed to fulfil this role. My resignation makes it possible for me to give my full co-operation to the police. Nothing at all is more important than this country's task of facing not only the enormous challenges ahead, that are the staple diet of tabloid journalism, but also providing high quality coverage of the upcoming Olympics.
I will leave immediately. As a professional, I stand by what I've said about the current situation. It's been a privilege and an honour to work for David Cameron. My future testimonies to the Select Committee on Home Affairs will prove that the allegations against me are false and show that Andy Coulson knew nothing.
Finally, I want to let the public know how sorry I am for the people we have hurt. My leaving the post makes it possible for me to have the freedom and the time to give full co-operation to restoring the previous good standing of News Corporation, hopefully allowing the News of the World to be relaunched, and for Rupert to complete his purchase of BSkyB.
Note to resignees: If you are unhappy with your letter, simply press refresh on your browser and a new one will be generated for you automatically.