French President Emmanuel Macron's office is closing the press room inside the presidential palace amid broader efforts by the French leader to control his public image.
Advisers for Macron announced Wednesday that journalists will be moved to a new site out of the presidential Elysee Palace with less access to presidential activity.
Government spokesman Benjamin Griveaux insisted the move was for "operational" reasons and not an effort to keep journalists at arms' length.
One adviser, however, said the move aims to end "privileges" for journalists, who've had a press room in the Elysee for more than 40 years under presidents across the political spectrum. The adviser was not authorised to be publicly named.
Macron's office has increasingly used Facebook and YouTube to spread his message instead of publicly answering media questions, according to AP.
Macron's office closes press room, moves reporters off-site
FE Team | Published: February 14, 2018 22:32:22 | Updated: February 17, 2018 11:13:56
Macron's office closes press room, moves reporters off-site
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