Former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown has spoken out about News International and the phone hacking scandal which has already seen the News Of The World closed down.

Brown has accused News International of obtaining access to his personal files, including details of his bank account and tax returns. But he then went further in his accusations.

According to Brown, News International is involved in a criminal conspiracy whereby the newspapers interact with people in the criminal underworld in order to obtain this information. And no one, be it celebrities, private individuals, or even high-profile politicians were safe.

These are serious allegations which Brown will have to stand by. I just wonder how long until News International feel the phone hacking scandal has died down enough to launch a replacement Sunday tabloid. A few months is probably a good bet.