David Cameron has suggested that a crackdown on the regulations that govern the press following the News Of The World phone-hacking scandal could have knock-on effects for broadcasters.

At a Downing Street press conference this morning the prime minister criticised both politicians for trying to “curry favour” with media organisations and the ineffectiveness of the Press Complaints Commission.

An inquiry into how the situation was allowed to develop will be launched, and Cameron warned the results might affect all other parts of the sector.

“There is a fundamental question about media regulation which applies not just to News International but all media organisations,” said Cameron.

“It’s a cathartic moment for media groups to have inquiries; they will be difficult but hopefully can lead to a new way of regulation’.”

He added politicians had spent too much time cosying up to organisations including the BBC and News International  

“The problem is leading politicians feel very passionate about having a strong relationship with every [media] organisation,” he said. “We didn’t stop and ask if their behaviour was proper, whether there was proper regulation and should we [have been] looking at the [earlier phone hacking] issues which are raised by [The Guardian].”

He likened the scandal to the furore over MPs expenses and said the public had been let down by politicians, the police and the media.

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