 Cameras May Film Trials
Television cameras could be allowed into British courts on a regular basis from next year, according to a leaked government document.It was expected that the Lord Chancellor Lord Falconer would limit the use of cameras in courtrooms to appeals in the Royal Courts of Justice.
But according to The Sunday Times, ministers have decided that broadcasters will be allowed to cover live some of the proceedings in high-profile criminal trials and civil disputes.
However, the Government has placed strict conditions on the coverage in order to strike a balance between "demystifying" the judicial system and protecting the identity of witnesses who give evidence in court.
In all cases only the judge will be shown in camera shot, not the defendants, lawyers, jurors or witnesses.
Ministers are keen to avoid going down the same route as America, where whole "show trials" such as that of the football star OJ Simpson, who was cleared of the murder of his wife, have been screened.
It will also be within the discretion of the judge to refuse broadcasters access where the case is regarded as too sensitive or if there is a risk of prejudicing another trial.
The decision to allow in the cameras follows a consultation with lawyers and broadcasters and other interest groups, and the operation of a six-week pilot project.
The cameras were permitted to record 24 cases in the Court of Appeal, although it was agreed the footage would never be broadcast.
The compromise ministers have come up with may go some way to appeasing critics who fear cameras may encourage the kind of media "circus" that surrounded the recent Michael Jackson trial in the US.
A spokesman for the Department for Constitutional Affairs said the consultation on televising courts was continuing, and that no final decisions had been taken.
What a fantastic idea!!........They should show the criminals though!!  | 
31-07-05, 11:15
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