News media phone hacking scandal confirmed the practice was ongoing. In 2007, Piers Morgan asserted that phone hacking was common practice. "Loads of newspaper journalists were doing it. Clive Goodman, the "News of the World" reporter, has been made the scapegoat for a widespread practice." Andrew Neil former editor of "The Sunday Times" and former writer for the "Daily Mail" claimed that phone hacking "was systemic throughout the News of the World, and to a lesser extent "The Sun"." Sharon Marshall former TV editor for "News of the World" and contributor to "The Sun" said hacking was industry wide. In 2010, Paul McMullan formally of
2009–2011 News of the World phone hacking scandal investigations Andy Coulson. At the time "The Guardian" made these claims, Coulson had left News International and was director of Conservative Party communications and planning. Due to this, some claimed that the reporting was politically motivated. The Conservative Party was quick to stand by Coulson. "The Guardian" also reported that the "News of the World" had made payments in excess of £1 million to three people subject to phone hacking, including Professional Footballers' Association chairman Gordon Taylor, with the out-of-court settlements subject to secrecy clauses. Around the same time, "Private Eye" revealed that "The Guardian" had, in order to avoid "all