Andy Coulson has been arrested on suspicion of phone hacking and corruption within the tabloid, News of the World. Coulson is former communications chief for Prime Minister David Cameron,
“The Metropolitan Police Service has this morning arrested a member of the public in connection with allegations of corruption and phone hacking,” a Scotland Yard spokesperson said.
Coulson was arrested by officers from both Operation Weeting, the inquiry into phone hacking, and Operation Elveden, the investigation into allegations that police were given bribes while Coulson was editor at News of the World.
Coulson will be questioned under both sets of allegations, and will likely be asked whether he was involvement in the phone hacking or if he authorized it to continue.
The ex-communications chief was forced to resign in January amidst growing speculation that he was involved in the phone hacking scandal and the arrest may increase pressure for David Cameron, who has come under great scrutiny for hiring Coulson despite his alleged involvement.
“The decision to hire him was mine – and mine alone – and I take full responsibility for it,” said the Prime Minister at a press conference this morning.
Although Coulson has repeatedly denied any involvement with the scandals, news this week revealed that News International found e-mails showing that payments to police were made while he served as editor.
