MPs are to write to James Murdoch to ask him to clarify evidence he gave to a parliamentary committee.

After his evidence was contradicted by a statement from News of the World's former lawyer and editor, members of the culture, media and sport select committee decided to ask Murdoch to clarify if he knew about a set of emails which indicated that phone hacking was widespread.

They will also write to former editor Colin Myler, lawyer Tom Crone and former NI legal director Tom Chapman.

Chair of the committee John Whittingdale told the BBC on Friday that Murdoch may still be recalled.

"I think that’s very likely, I think we will almost certainly want to hear from Colin Myler and Tom Crone, particularly since the evidence they previously gave to the committee two years ago seems completely contradictory to what is being said now and at the same time if they do dispute some of the evidence that James Murdoch has given to us then I think it’s very possible we may wish to call James Murdoch back to address that particular point."

Committee member Tom Watson, who has campaigned for the scandal to be exposed, told the BBC on Thursday evening that he wanted Murdoch to be recalled. However he told reporters on Friday his attempt to recall Murdoch had been voted down.

News International released a statement last week saying that James Murdoch stands by his evidence.

The news came after the BSkyB board gave the younger Murdoch unanimous backing to remain as chairman.