The Society of Editors has called for a “cool and sensible consideration of media ethics” in the midst of the furore over phone-hacking.

Prime Minister David Cameronhas announced an inquiry into press ethics which is expected to recommend changes to the regulatory framework for the industry, including the possible abolition of the Press Complaints Commission.

The SoE, which represents editors across the regional and national press as well as broadcasters held a board meeting last week to consider its response to the latest developments.

Afterwards its executive director Bob Satchwell said it would be “totally wrong” to assume that journalists across the industry have “forgotten their ethics.”

Said Bob:  “The SoE has already condemned illegal practices and shares public outrage.  It is vitally important  that these crucial matters are judged on the evidence as opposed to rumours, claims and speculation.

“We intend to make a full contribution to the various inquiries, both criminal and judicial.  It is totally wrong to assume that journalists on the other 20 national papers and 1300 regional titles have forgotten their ethics.

“We hope that politicians realise that it is important that they help to rebuild public confidence in a free press that plays such a vital part in any democracy.

“The press must not be muted or controlled by politicians or any other group.  If we are to have a free press it cannot be free only for those papers of which individuals may approve.

Bob added:  “We need to let the flames of the firestorm die down. We can’t draw conclusions on the press and press ethics until the evidence has been uncovered.

“It is the media’s job to uncover the truth and tell the public, not to be cosy with politicians, their relationship must remain straightforward and professional.

“There have been many unintended consequences of this scandal, we have already lost one paper. Despite all of the accusations of unsavoury practices it should not be forgotten that Rupert Murdoch invested hugely in British newspapers for 40 years and maintained the wide of choice of titles this country enjoys.

“To lose that plurality in the press would be a very dangerous for the public’s right to know.”