Counsel acting on behalf of the family of Dr David Kelly yesterday accused the Ministry of Defence of playing "Russian roulette" with his identity.

Jeremy Gompertz QC said the MoD - which put in place a "naming strategy" - treated the government scientist in a "shabby" way.

The exchange came as the Hutton inquiry moved into its second phase - with tough cross-examinations set to continue today.

Andrew Gilligan will face questions from government lawyers on whether he accurately reflected what Dr Kelly told him in a broadcast on the Today programme.

He faces further questions over his claim that former Number 10 communications chief Alastair Campbell had claims inserted into the government's Iraqi intelligence dossier knowing them to be wrong.

Gilligan's emails to members of the Commons foreign affairs select committee suggesting lines of questioning for Dr Kelly will also face further criticism.

Also entering the witness stand will be BBC head of news Richard Sambrook.

He faces questions over the role of BBC management in defending a story that has been repeatedly denied by the government.