Murdoch downplays influence

Rupert Murdoch began giving evidence on Wednesday to confront charges that he used his clout to curry favor with a succession of British leaders, electrifying a media inquiry that has become increasingly damaging for the government.

An appearance by Rupert's son James on Tuesday revealed how a government minister had sought to help Murdoch's News Corp in an ultimately abortive takeover bid, a toxic admission for Prime Minister David Cameron, who is already seen as too close to the Murdochs.

The 81-year-old media mogul, wearing a bright blue tie, appeared under oath at the Victorian gothic courtroom, watched by his son Lachlan and wife Wendi Deng.