The Tokyo District Public Prosecutor's Office opened its news conference to nonpress club members Thursday, following the example of several ministries that have started allowing freelancers into their regular media briefings.
Previously, the prosecutor's office only allowed in reporters from media outlets who were regular members of the Tokyo District Court Press Club, effectively admitting only representatives of mainstream newspapers and TV stations.
"We received lots of requests from freelance journalists who wanted to participate, and we decided it was acceptable," said Motonari Otsuru, the office's deputy chief public prosecutor. "We believe that by having various people from the media participate, our investigations and court proceedings will be reported from various perspectives."