The picture now looks less rosy for Campbell
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Your support makes all the difference.The Hutton inquiry is full of unexpected twists and turns as the fortunes of the leading players fluctuate daily.
Last week, there was growing evidence to back Andrew Gilligan's claim that the Government "sexed up" its dossier on Iraq.
Now the BBC journalist is back in trouble because he suggested questions for a member of the Commons Foreign Affairs Committee (FAC) to ask Dr David Kelly. Alastair Campbell won a deservedly good press after his assured appearance on Tuesday. However, he may be recalled over possible flaws in his story. In June, Mr Campbell told the FAC he suggested 11 changes to the dossier drafted by John Scarlett, chairman of the Joint Intelligence Committee (JIC). But evidenceshows Mr Campbell requested 15 changes. One relates to the Government's "45 minute" claim, the cause of its dispute with the BBC.
Mr Scarlett wrote to Mr Campbell: "The language you queried on the old page 17 has been tightened." An example of "sexing up"? It appears to contradict Mr Campbell's statement to the inquiry that he had no involvement in the "45 minute" claim.
Some members of the FAC want to recall Mr Campbell to explain these inconsistencies. But Labour's Donald Anderson, the chairman, said it was unlikely the issue would be reopened. "There comes a point when you have to draw a line," he said. It was a pity that the Government and BBC were unable to do that. The other potential flaw in Mr Campbell's case are the e-mails and memos showing how his colleagues at Downing Street were closely involved in drafting the September dossier. I
The e-mails show that the involvement of No 10 civil servants and advisers went beyond how the dossier would be presented - the Government's official line. They also reflect the doubts in Downing Street about the strength of their case against Saddam.
Lord Hutton is unlikely to adjudicate in the row. He said his inquiry is into the death of David Kelly and "not a trial conducted between ... parties who have conflicting cases to advance". But his findings could make or break Mr Campbell, Mr Gilligan, and Defence Secretary, Geoff Hoon.
Next week
The Hutton inquiry reconvenes at 10.30am on Tuesday.
Lord Hutton will hear evidence from the following witnesses:
Andrew Mackinlay, MP who questioned Dr Kelly at the Foreign Affairs Select Committee.
John Scarlett, the chairman of the Joint Intelligence Committee.
Sir David Omand, the permanent secretary to the Cabinet Office.
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