John Whittingdale's position as culture, media and sport secretary has been questioned after he revealed he had a relationship with a sex worker.
Mr Whittingdale is facing calls to withdraw his involvement in regulation of the press after it was reported that a number of newspapers had investigated the claims but decided not to run the story.
Mr Whittingdale, who is divorced, insisted the relationship never compromised his position.
Former tabloid newspaper deputy editor Neil Wallis doesn't believe the press held any leverage over John Whittingdale after finding out about his affair with a sex worker.
The ex-Sun and News of the World deputy editor said he doesn't believe editors would have viewed the story as being of "public interest" post the Leveson inquiry
There was no conspiracy between newspapers over the Whittingdale affair, but there is circumstantial evidence involving Tom Watson.
A Downing Street spokesman said the PM has 'full confidence' in the Culture Secretary after campaigners claim his role has been compromised.
Here is a list of key events leading up to Culture Secretary John Whittingdale's revelations on Tuesday he had an affair with a prostitute.