Andy Coulson's quiet exit from No 10

Andy Coulson has left 10 Downing Street for the last time following the mobile phone hacking row.

David Cameron gave his strategy and communications director a quiet send-off in the Prime Minister's office with close colleagues yesterday. One said: "It was his choice to leave quietly. He had finished what he wanted to finish."

Mr Coulson, who resigned two weeks ago, was editor of the News of the World when illegal eavesdropping was said to have been rife. He has always denied any involvement.