Media companies have won a concession from the inquiry panel for a second television camera to be allowed into the hearing chamber.
The panel had laid down strict rules for media coverage of the Chung inquiry, requiring TV stations to co-operate under a pool coverage arrangement involving the use of a single camera.
That edict was relaxed yesterday with the addition of a second camera, as well as provision for still photography.
TVB yesterday provided the shared coverage of the 50-minute preliminary hearing for the pool of TV stations. The Apple Daily was responsible for still photography. But tape recording remains banned, as stipulated in the original rules of the panel.
Hong Kong Journalists' Association chairman Mak Yin-ting yesterday agreed the new arrangements were acceptable but hoped the inquiry chairman could consider allowing tape recording.
Mr Justice Noel Power said the panel had agreed 'with some reluctance' to relax the rules because it appreciated the case was of great public interest. However, he ruled out any further easing of restrictions on media coverage.
