HACKING

Major: ‘Excessive Degree of Chuminess’

Gives testimony at Leveson inquiry.

Former British prime minister Sir John Major testified Tuesday that he hoped the Leveson Inquiry into media ethics will result in "action that will lift the worst of the press standards of the best of the press," saying there is a "certain degree of chuminess" between the press and the government. Major, whose daughter-in-law, Emma Noble, issued a civil claim against News Corp. a few months ago, was infamous for several "sleaze" scandals during his seven years as prime minister. By the 1997 general election, he had lost the support of the British press, including The Sun. Major's testimony will be followed by Labour leader Ed Miliband.