Warning on ‘cosy’ Murdoch link

The First Minister’s relationship with Rupert Murdoch could be damaging Scotland’s interests, phone-hacking campaigner Tom Watson has suggested.

The Labour MP, who sits on the culture, media and sport select committee, said it was a “mistake” for Alex Salmond to “cosy up” to the media mogul.

However, Mr Salmond insisted his relationship with Mr Murdoch was “totally professional” and their recent exchanges “perfectly proper and above board”.

The First Minister last met Mr Murdoch on 29 February in Edinburgh, to discuss a mixed agenda.