Rupert Murdoch's future as the head as the head of his own media empire was hanging in balance as he prepared to be grilleld by the MP's about the phone hacking scandal that has engulfed his company.
insiders at the company- owners of the news of the world claimed that a future with out MR Murdoch at the helm was already under discussion and they said much will depend on how he performed before the committee.
News Corp executives who watched Mr Murdoch rehearse for his appearance were said to have concerns about the way in which he handled questions.
There is speculation that chief operating officer Chase Carey could be promoted to chief executive officer, the position currently held by Mr Murdoch. The media tycoon would remain chairman of the company.
A report in the Wall Street Journal today suggested that Mr Murdoch has been considering stepping down even before the phone hacking scandal broke.