The death of Paul Chinnery at the age of only 48 is a great loss to the law, to News UK and to his family and large circle of friends.

Paul joined me at what was then News International at the height of the company’s response to the hacking issues. He confronted these difficulties in his characteristically direct, forthright and constructive manner. He was one of the individuals directly responsible for seeing through the appropriate changes at The Sun, The Times and The Sunday Times.

In short, the major contribution Paul made to the UK’s media landscape will remain part of his legacy for many years to come.

With my warmest condolences to Paul’s widow Jess, his family and many friends for the loss of this truly exceptional man.

Tom Mockridge, chief executive officer, Virgin Media

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