Roehampton Chair Appointed To Phone Hacking Inquiry Panel

The panel of six members will explore the culture, practice and ethics of the press

University of Roehampton Chair of Council, Sir David Bell was announced by the Prime Minister as a member of Lord Justice Leveson's inquiry into phone hacking. Civil liberties campaigner Shami Chakrabati, who is an honorary graduate of Roehampton, has also been selected as a panel member.

The panel of six members will explore the culture, practice and ethics of the press; as well as the effectiveness of the current regulatory framework. It will also consider the extent of unlawful or improper conduct within News International and other press organisations.

Sir David Bell is a non-executive director of the Economist and was formerly Chairman of the FT and a Director of Pearson. Sir David said:
"I am honoured to have been asked to join such an important inquiry which will be dealing with some of the most vital issues that affect our whole society."

Congratulating both on the appointment, Vice-Chancellor Paul O'Prey said:
"These appointment are a testament to the standing and reputation of both Sir David Bell and Shami Chakrabati in their respective professions and beyond."

August 2, 2011