Phone-hacking scandal expands to cover computer hacking
By politics.co.uk staff
The row over phone-hacking has widened dramatically, with the police now investigating computer hacking in addition to their pre-existing inquiries.
The development comes days after Labour MP Tom Watson told the prime minister that "powerful forces may be involved in a cover-up" during PMQs.
Visibly angry, Mr Cameron responded to that question by insisting there was no limit to what the police could investigate.
The new claims relate to the information Scotland Yard held about Jonathan Rees, who worked for the News of the World and other newspapers.
Mr Watson alleged that Mr Rees carried out covert surveillance of former prime minister Tony Blair, while the Guardian suggests several members of the royal household, including the Duchess of Cambridge before her marriage, were also targeted.
"It is well documented that Jonathan Rees and Southern Investigations worked for a whole variety of newspaper groups," News International said.
"With regards to Tom Watson's specific allegations, we believe these are wholly inaccurate."
Jack Straw and Lord Mandelson have also been named in the allegation, and have asked Scotland Yard for information held concerning Mr Rees.
"I have contacted the Met police today to ask them what information they may hold from current or previous investigations," Lord Mandelson told the Independent.
"It isn't acceptable to keep pointing the finger at one newspaper when clearly the use of unlawful means of investigating was, or is, widespread.
"This is a bigger issue than the wrongdoing of one rogue investigator and that's why this whole issue should be pursued more widely."
Mr Straw told the paper: "I have written to the Metropolitan Police to ask exactly what evidence they have as this is the first I have heard of it."
The extended investigation will take place alongside the existing Operation Weeting, which has already led to several arrests.
