Speaking outside the court, David Shayler's girlfriend Annie Machon read out a statement on behalf of David:

"David is obviously disappointed by the jury's decision - but they were prevented by the Appeal Court from hearing the full truth. David revealed malpractice, crime and incompetence on the part of the intelligence services - in the public interest. He still firmly believes he was right to do so.

"We knew the Appeal Court ruling meant the jury would have a limited role here. That's why some months ago we applied to the European Court of Human Rights. We believe judges in Europe will be more sceptical about the Official Secrets rules in this country and much more likely to acknowledge the importance of free expression.

"That said, the jury obviously had real concerns, given that they spent over three hours deliberating. It was obviously a difficult decision for the jury; as you saw, a number were in tears at the verdict.

"The Official Secrets Act needs urgent review, and Parliament must ensure that anyone who is prosecuted under it in future has a public interest defence. Even in the heart of the Secret State, conscientious employees must be able to expose wrongdoing. Whistleblowers should be protected".

John Wadham, director of Liberty and David Shayler's solicitor, said:
"The Official Secrets Act needs to be amended so that there is a public interest defence. Then juries could be told the whole truth and whistleblowers who expose malpractice would then be acquitted".

Mr Justice Moses will decide on David Shayler's sentence at a hearing tomorrow - 2pm, Court 2, Old Bailey. Geoffrey Robertson QC will represent David Shayler (who will of course also be attending). After sentencing, David and/or his representatives will make a further statement and answer questions outside the Court.