Tokyo, June 25 (Reuters): Japan’s Imperial Household Agency asked domestic news media today not to pester Crown Princess Masako when she goes on private trips, to reduce the type of stress that has made her ill.

The woes of the princess, who for months now has been unable to carry out her official duties, have highlighted the pressures of her position and prompted surprisingly blunt comments in her defence by her husband, Crown Prince Naruhito, who had said Masako tried hard to adapt to life in the staid Imperial Palace and the effort had totally exhausted her.

Today’s request came from Hideki Hayashida, grand master of the crown prince’s household, to 15 major Japanese news organisations including newspapers, television and wire services, a spokesperson for the Imperial Household Agency said. Hayashida asked media organisations to refrain from news coverage activities such as taking pictures when Masako makes private visits or trips as she tries to recover.

“One factor that led to a worsening of the physical condition of the princess is resistance toward having private movements covered and reported.”