DHAKA: Former News of the World editor Andy Coulson has been found guilty of conspiracy to hack phones.

Ex-News International chief executive Rebekah Brooks was cleared of all charges in the phone-hacking trial, reports the BBC.

Coulson went on to become director of communications for David Cameron. The prime minister has now apologised for making the appointment.

Royals, celebrities and victims of crime were among those whose phones were hacked by the News of the World.

Speaking after the verdicts were delivered, Cameron said, ‘I take full responsibility for employing Andy Coulson’.

‘I did so on the basis of undertakings I was given by him about phone hacking and those turn out not to be the case.’

‘I always said that if they turned out to be wrong I would make a full and frank apology and I do that today.’

‘I am extremely sorry I employed him. It was the wrong decision and I am clear about that.’

BDST: 1903 HRS, JUNE 24, 2014