RECOMMENDATIONS to change press regulation have been welcomed by an MP.

Hyndburn and Haslingden MP Graham Jones said it was ‘regrettable’ that new regulations, which had cross party approval, had been delayed.

However he said there were hopes Leveson recommendations would be in place soon.

He said: “The hacking of Milly Dowler’s phone, the treatment of the McCanns, led to victims suffering in a way that we can barely begin to imagine.

“After over three months of cross-party talks and discussions with both the newspaper industry and the victims of press intrusion, agreement was reached by all three party leaders in March.

“That Royal Charter was then approved by both Houses of Parliament. It complies with Lord Justice Leveson’s recommendations and sets up a proper complaints system.

“However, there has been a delay because parts of the newspaper industry were unhappy with it. The delay in submitting the Parliamentary Royal Charter is regrettable. But it is important that the Privy Council adheres to due process.

“Labour hopes that the Royal Charter agreed by Parliament in March will be submitted to the Privy Council as soon as the process allows. We remain committed to that Royal Charter, the subject of cross-party agreement and approved by both Houses of Parliament, which delivers the recommendations of the Leveson Report and is the right way forward.”