The Metropolitan Police should not reopen their investigation into a Cwmbran private investigator's murder, the victim's brother has said.

Llanfrechfa man Daniel Morgan was found outside a London pub car park with an axe in his skull in March 1987. His death remains unsolved and Met Commissioner Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe last month indicated the investigation could be reopened.

But Mr Morgan's brother Alastair today insisted the case needs public scrutiny rather than the Met "putting their hands upon this case any more".

He claimed the force was still covering up certain aspects of the murder. An independent panel is reviewing, among other issues, how police corruption affected the handling of the murder inquiry.

Alastair told BBC Radio 4's Today programme of Sir Bernard's comments: "We haven't had any explanation at all about what he means by this reopening in the investigation.

"I am very worried about this because the Met's handling of the case has been so appalling at times in the past that I think it's essential we have public scrutiny of it now - 27 years have passed, five investigations and it needs public scrutiny.

"It doesn't need the Met putting their hands upon this case any more."

He added: "We have written to him twice, we've had - as far as I know - no reply whatsoever to our letters. I know my solicitor has written to (Home Secretary Theresa May) about it and we want this public independent scrutiny."

Mr Morgan said he was not satisfied with a previous admission that the first investigation into the murder was "tainted by corruption", adding the conduct of the series of investigations needs to be looked at.

He went on: "I believe a certain aspect of what was taking place in my brother's murder is still being covered up. My perception of the Metropolitan Police is that in extreme situations, as in the case of my brother, they will put their reputation before the public interest."

In a statement to the programme, the Met Police said it has received the letter, it is being fully considered and they will respond "as soon as practicable".