The Justice Secretary Ken Clarke has lifted a ban on filming in courts though he has admitted that limits will be in place.
Filming has been banned in courts since the Criminal Justice Act of 1925, although it is permitted in the Supreme Court. It is expected that the public will first be able to see proceedings in appeal hearings before moving onto sentences imposed in crown courts.
However the move has led to some condemnation amid fears that courtrooms will be turned into “reality shows” with more theatrical displays. However, Mr Clarke has said that only judges’ remarks will be shown and that there will be a consultation process in place to ensure that a lifting of the ban does not affect the administration of justice and that victims, witnesses, offenders and jurors are protected.
