TV Cameras To Be In Use In Courts By Autumn

The Ministry of Justice has confirmed that television cameras will begin covering some court cases later this year.

Sky News understands that the first cases at the Court of Appeal will be televised from October.

It follows a Sky News campaign during which the station called for the restrictions on television cameras in courts to be lifted.

Under previous legislation, even still cameras were not allowed to be used within the 'precincts' of a court.

Campaigners said that showing trials on TV would help improve awareness and understanding of the judicial process.

The move was originally outlined in the Queen's Speech, which sets out Government plans, in 2012.

Ministers said at the time they want to "demystify" the justice system and providing limited access for television cameras would help.

Some hearings in Scotland have already been shown on television, including the sentencing of David Gilroy who, in April 2012, received 18 years for the 2010 killing of book keeper Suzanne Pilley.

Judge Lord Bracadale was recorded at the High Court in Edinburgh and the footage was then transmitted by Sky News and other broadcasters.

Simon Bucks, Sky News' Associate Editor, said: "It’s a very important moment in the campaign to fully open up the courts to the public.

"We will start showing pooled coverage of hearings in the Court of Appeal from October and very much hope that it won’t be long before we can also show some parts of Crown Court trials."

Photography was originally banned from court rooms in 1925. Film and video cameras were added to the ban later.

Opponents say that filming proceedings can lead to those participating in trials changing their behaviour or testimony.

There are also fears about the effects that filming would have on a jury if crown court proceedings are shown.

The Court of Appeal, which is presided over by highly experienced judges, is thought to be less at risk of being affected by TV cameras.