A new list of the most influential people in PR has Rupert Murdoch’s close friend Matthew Freud at number one. His continued prominence was shored up by his involvement in the Oleg Deripaska affair.

Freud is followed by Finsbury chief and industry veteran Roland Rudd, who advised Lloyds-TSB during the banking crisis.

Other agency big hitters in the list include third-placed Alan Parker, founded of Brunswick, and Lord Bell at number six.

The Conservative’s director of comms Andy Coulson is at number five, while government places go to special advisor Damien McBride at number nine and Matt Tee of the Government Office number 10.

The research was based on discussions with senior journalists and industry associations.