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As the Leveson Inquiry into the culture, practices and ethics of the press takes evidence, Joshua Rozenberg looks at the expanding role of public inquiries and independent reviews, their practices and procedures and how accountable they are.

In his inquiry, Lord Justice Leveson is seeking an inclusive approach, holding open seminars and teach-in sessions and creating a role for "core participants" who have demonstrated a special interest in the Inquiry's work. The panel of experts working with the judge has been chosen, it is claimed, for its independence. But just how transparent will the Inquiry be? Joshua Rozenberg talks to those involved in previous high-profile public inquiries to discover what effect they have had on our law and public policy, whether they represented value for money for the taxpayer and whose interests they really served.

Among those taking part are:
Lord Falconer, former Lord Chancellor;
Inquiries expert, Richard Lissack QC;
Inquirer into the death of Victoria Climbie, Lord Laming;
Inquirer into the deaths caused by Harold Shipman, Dame Janet Smith; and
Inquirer into the Soham murders and child protection issues, Lord Bichard.

Producer: Simon Coates.