Steve Coogan in fiery News of the World 'Newsnight' debate: Video

Steve Coogan has declared himself "delighted" with the News of the World's upcoming closure.

The 45-year-old comedian, an alleged target of phone hacking by the Sunday tabloid, praised the outcome as a "victory for decency and humanity".

"I have to say that [this week] is a momentous event. A lot of people have been saying it's a bad day for the press. I think it's a wonderful day for the press. People knew this was going on but accepted it because they thought it was part of the landscape to tolerate this kind of behaviour," he told Newsnight presenter Emily Maitlis.

"Let's not forget that the News of the World is, as far as I'm concerned - and always has been - misogynistic, xenophobic, single parent-hating, asylum seeker-hating... and it's gone to the wall, and I'm delighted!"

Backed by fellow guest Greg Dyke, Coogan then attacked ex-News of the World reporter Paul McMullan in a fiery exchange. Watch the debate below:



The News of the World, which will be in publication for the last time this Sunday after 168 years, has been widely criticised for allegedly tapping into the phones of the murdered Milly Dowler, as well as the families of deceased army servicemen.

Best known in the UK for his alter egos Alan Partridge and Paul & Pauline Calf, Coogan fell foul of the Sunday newspaper when it suggested he was in a relationship with Courtney Love.

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