Statement from Mark Haysom, Managing Director, National Newspapers

This review has established that the well-defined procedures in operation in the company were followed and that legal opinion was sought prior to publication. This legal opinion contributed to the decision to go ahead with publication on the basis that the interview was deemed not to be prejudicial to the court case in Hull.

Whether publication of this article is subject to contempt proceedings is a matter for the Attorney General. We will, of course, be cooperating fully with his office on this matter. It would, however, be wholly in appropriate for us to comment further on this aspect at this time.

Irrespective of the issues of contempt, it is clear from events that have unfolded this week that the decision to publish was a serious error of judgement. We would wish to take this opportunity to express again our regret at the consequences of that decision.

Colin Myler has resigned as editor of the Sunday Mirror and has left the company. Colin is a very experienced editor who has held senior roles in this company over a number of years. It is a considerable sadness that he has departed under these circumstances.

Tina Weaver, currently deputy editor of The Mirror, has been appointed editor of the Sunday Mirror. Tina has made a significant contribution to the rejuvenation of The Mirror in recent years. Particularly notable was her role in the launch of the award winning M magazine.

We are going to take the opportunity presented by Tinaundefineds appointment to ensure that The Mirror and the Sunday Mirror work together more effectively.

Tina has, of course, worked closely with Piers Morgan, editor of The Mirror, for a number of years. In her new role she will continue to do so.

It will be the responsibility of Piers and Tina to ensure that the titles are more closely aligned and that we take advantage of our strengths across the week.