There are calls for a full inquiry into the alleged phone hacking at the News of the World, following the resignation of Andy Coulson.

The former editor of the paper said in a recent statement that he believed claims about illegal hacking under his editorship meant he could not "give the 110% needed", for his role as Downing Street communications chief .

Despite accepting responsibility for the illegal activities, Mr Coulson strongly denies knowing they were taking place and a Scotland Yard investigation resulted in no further charges.

But now fresh allegations into the investigation have been ignited following documents disclosed in cases from a number of public figures, that are taking civil legal action against the newspaper.

However Labour frontbencher Chris Bryant said he hoped the Metropolitan Police would now conduct a thorough investigation into the phone hacking.

No decision on a replacement for No 10's new director of communications has been made, although Mr Coulson will stay at Downing street while a successor is found.

Earlier this month the News of the World executive Ian Edmondson was suspended over allegations of phone hacking in 2005-6, in a case reportedly brought forward by actress Sienna Miller.