White House admits defeat in CNN battle but outlines new rules for journalists

The White House has issued new rules for reporters as it backed down in a row with CNN and reinstated the press pass of journalist Jim Acosta.

In a letter sent to Acosta yesterday the White House outlined new guidelines saying reporters may only ask a single-question at press conferences, and follow-ups will only be permitted at the President’s discretion, CNN reported.

It follows an incident at a press conference earlier this month that saw Acosta banned from the White House after asking multiple questions.

The White House's letter said, "Having received a formal reply from your counsel to our letter of November 16, we have made a final determination in this process: your hard pass is restored. Should you refuse to follow these rules in the future, we will take action in accordance with the rules set forth above. The President is aware of this decision and concurs."

However, the White House Correspondents’ Association said it had no role in crafting the new guidelines.

“For as long as there have been White House press conferences, White House reporters have asked follow-up questions. We fully expect this tradition will continue,” it said.

In a statement CNN and Acosta said: “Today the White House fully restored Acosta's press pass. As a result, our lawsuit is no longer necessary. We look forward to continuing to cover the White House."