A restriction imposed on media coverage at the Central Government Offices has sparked heavy criticism from lawmakers and media groups, who say the measure will curb freedom of the press.
Reporters will now have to obtain a permit before being allowed to enter the offices, where they can only report from two areas - the main wing and the west wing.
A statement from the Information Services Department said the measure 'aims to ensure that reporting is conducted in a safe environment and has absolutely nothing to do with press freedom'.
On Thursday, more than 100 reporters scrambled to get pictures and comments from former financial secretary Antony Leung Kam-chung and outgoing Secretary for Security Regina Ip Lau Suk-yee.
The Hong Kong Journalists' Association and the Hong Kong Press Photographers' Association have sent a joint letter to Director for Administration Wong Ho-yuen protesting at the arrangements.
The News Executives' Association felt more consultation should have been carried out before the changes were made.