Rupert Murdoch Attack In Commons A 'Serious Failure' Of Security

Rupert Murdoch Attack In Commons A 'Serious Failure' Of Security
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The attack on Rupert Murdoch during his appearance in Parliament was a "serious failure" of security, the Speaker of the House of Commons John Bercow has said.

In July Murdoch was attacked by a man wielding a plate full of shaving foam while giving evidence to the culture, media and sport committee on phone hacking.

Murdoch was defended only by his wife Wendi Deng, who shot to her feet to smack the assailant, Jonathan May-Bowles, in the head.

The incident which was broadcast live around the world and was an embarrassment for Commons security staff as it exposed the apparently lax security arrangements at one of its highest-profile committee hearings in years.

In a statement on Monday afternoon John Bercow said he had received an official report into the assault.

"At the time of the attack none of the security staff in the room was in a position to be able to reach the assailant before he got to Mr Murdoch," Bercow said.

"Those present commented on the chaotic nature of scenes inside and outside following the incident."

He told the Commons that the "serious failing of planning for this event was based on the wrong assessment of risk".

"The personal safety of those involved; witness, staff and the public must be the guiding principle for those charged with security."

Bercow said a series of measures to beef up security would now be implemented, including tighter checks on bags and enhanced psychical security measures.

A new post of director of security was also being considered.

The attack on Murdoch - commonly referred to as 'Piegate' - led to incredibly tight security at subsequent committee meetings involving anyone who had worked at News International.

Last week Jill Pay, the Serjeant-at-Arms of the House of Commons, announced she would retire after 17 years working in Parliament.

The post she is vacating includes responsibility for security at the House of Commons and its committee rooms. In her letter to the Speaker, Ms. Pay said she had taken the decision "after careful consideration", and would leave her job in January.