In a move which is hoped to bring greater transparency to the judicial system within the UK, it has been reported that television cameras could be granted permission to film within Crown Courts throughout England and Wales.
Currently proceedings within the Supreme Court can already be filmed; whilst since 1992 cameras have been permitted within Scottish courts, as long as all parties consent.
In addition, from October this year cameras will be able to film within the Court of Appeal; and it has now been announced that there are proposals to allow cameras into Crown Courts.
Under the proposals put forward to allow cameras into Crown Courts – where the most serious criminal cases are heard, with trials being heard by a judge and a twelve person jury – broadcasters will only be granted permission to film the judge when they deliver a verdict and when sentencing is passed.
Announcing the proposals, ministers said they hope that the move will allow the public to watch justice in action, which in turn will help build trust in the UK’s judicial system – although some judges, including Lord Judge, the outgoing lord chief justice, have raised some concerns about allowing cameras into courts.