Call to allow cameras into courts

The Justice Secretary has been called on by broadcaster Sky News to allow cameras into courtrooms. Head of Sky News, John Ryley, said televising judges’ remarks could give members of the public a better understanding into the sentences passed on those involved in last month’s riots. Currently, section 41 of the Criminal Justice Act 1925 states that cameras and video cameras are not allowed in courts. A campaign to overturn the ban and get television cameras into courts was launched by Mr Ryley in January 2010. In his latest move, the Sky News boss has written an open letter to Ken Clarke saying the time had come to permit TV cameras, starting with the broadcast of sentencing remarks and judgements. “The controversy over sentencing policy following the recent riots has once again illustrated the lack of transparency in our judicial system,” he said. “The public is unsurprisingly confused by the discrepancies in some of the sentences handed down to those involved in the rioting and looting.” A Ministry of Justice spokesman said: “Before any firm proposals are developed, the Lord Chancellor will wish to consult on the principle of broadcasting from court with the senior judiciary.” We have one of the leading teams of criminal specialists in West London and the South East. If you are facing a serious criminal charge, you can contact a member of the IBB’s Criminal Defence team: call us on 08456 381381 or email criminaldefence@ibblaw.co.uk.