Earlier this week, I called on people to demonstrate their outrage at the News of the World phone hacking scandal by boycotting the paper.
It was not a call I made lightly but these were unprecedented circumstances which tainted not just the News of the World but the whole British Press.
A slump in sales, coupled with advertising withdrawals, would send a very clear message that such deplorable practices would not be tolerated by the newspaper-buying public.
I take no pleasure whatsoever in tonight's shock announcement that the News of the World is to be scrapped.
It is one of history's greatest newspaper brands and throughout its 168-years, its bold, investigative style of journalism has unearthed stories of international significance which served the public interest.
It is a matter of enormous regret that it will be best remembered for its failure to uphold basic human rights.
As Rupert Murdoch said in a statement tonight: "The News of the World is in the business of holding others to account. But it failed when it came to itself."
The irony is that, having called for a boycott, sales of the last News of the World this Sunday will go through the roof.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel