James and Rupert Murdoch's appearances in front of the Leveson Inquiry into press standards has ruffled a few political feathers. But will it lead to a shift in the relationship between the press and politicians?

Former Conservative leader Lord Howard told the Today programme's John Humphrys that it has be part of a politicians job to persuade people of their views, so "you use every avenue of communication to get the message across".

He said that the press "will continue to be one element" of this, no matter what happens at Leveson, but added that it would be "quite wrong" if favours are sought from editors in exchange for coverage.

But Lord Prescott said that the emergence of social media was shifting the relationship, because politicians "don't have to rely on editors" to convey their views.

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