Washington, DC - Today, Congressman Bruce Braley (IA-01) called on Darrell Issa, Chair of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, to launch an investigation into Rupert Murdoch's News Corporation. Rep. Braley called for the investigation following reports that News Corporation and its subsidiaries may have bribed foreign law enforcement officials and potentially hacked the phone lines of U.S. citizens.

"These reports are very troubling and I believe they require a thorough investigation," said Rep. Braley. "The Committee on Oversight and Government Reform has a duty to protect the privacy of Americans and to hold U.S. corporations accountable - and I expect Chairman Issa to direct the Committee to carry out its duties as they relate to this very serious case."

A copy of Rep. Braley's letter to Chairman Issa is pasted below and available here: http://go.usa.gov/BO4 

July 13, 2011

The Honorable Darrell Issa

Chairman

House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform

2157 Rayburn House Office Building

Washington, DC 20515

Dear Chairman Issa:

As you may know, serious allegations have recently been raised accusing Rupert Murdoch's News Corporation of acting improperly and possibly in violation of United Stateslaw.

It has been reported that News Corporation and its subsidiaries may have bribed London police officers for information for use in newspaper articles, including information about high-ranking government officials. If true, these charges could be a violation of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) that forbids bribery of foreign government officials by U.S.-based companies.

Additionally, News Corporation has already admitted to phone hacking in London, and I have concerns about allegations that hacking may have also extended to U.S. citizens. I ask that you investigate whether victims of the September 11, 2001 attack and other U.S. citizens had their cell phones targeted by News Corporation. Please look into the serious allegations that have been made against News Corporation. We owe it to the American public to find out if victims have been subject to criminal actions by News Corporation and its affiliates.

The Committee on Oversight and Government Reform has a duty to protect the privacy of Americans and tohold U.S. corporations accountable. I look forward to your response within ten business days regarding an investigation of News Corporation. Thank you foryour consideration.

Sincerely,

Bruce Braley

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