The Sun newspaper reportedly printed the controversial naked pictures of Prince Harry because Rupert Murdoch apparently wanted to 'fire a warning shot' at Lord Justice Leveson's inquiry into press ethics.
News International, the paper's parent company, has refused to comment on the speculation, but Murdoch took to Twitter and lashed out at the UK’s press laws.
He took to social media to explain why the tabloid newspaper became the first British publication to print the images of the prince’s naked pool session, writing: “Simple equation: free, open uncontrollable Internet versus shackled newspapers equals no newspapers. Let's get real.”
Murdoch has denied taking the decision to print the photos, despite press reports, but says he agrees with the move.
He also tweeted support for the troubled prince, adding: “Prince Harry. Give him a break. He may be on the public payroll one way or another, but the public loves him, even to enjoy Las Vegas.”
The decision of The Sun to publish the photos has sparked a new debate about the freedom of the press as the pictures were widely available on the internet while UK publications were restricted by law on what they could publish.
PHOTOS: Celebs worst naked pics
Entertainment News