Lord McAlpine: The public hatred was 'terrifying'

Lord McAlpine has said he has been "shattered" by false claims that he was a paedophile were circulated all over the world.

The allegations were contained in a BBC Newsnight film which talked of a prominent Conservative politician from the Thatcher era.

In his first broadcast interview since the film went out, the former Conservative party treasurer told Radio 4 The World at One programme's Becky Milligan, to find yourself unjustifiably a figure of public hatred is "terrifying".

Although Lord McAlpine was not named in the film, many linked him to the allegations on the social media website Twitter.

After Newsnght was aired Steve Messham, who had made the original accusations of child abuse, saw a picture of Lord McAlpine and issued an apology for falsely identifying him.

The BBC has also apologised for the report and launched an inquiry into why it was broadcast.

Following today's interview with Lord McAlpine the corporation said: "We share Lord McAlpine's view and we hope to reach a conclusion today."

Ofcom, the broadcasting watchdog, has said it would be investigating both Newsnight and ITV's programme This Morning which inadvertently broadcast a list of alleged paedophiles.