Sir
I welcome news that the Government is planning to end the blanket ban on broadcasting court proceedings and the use of cameras in court.
As someone who has worked in the criminal law I have sat through many hearings and listened on numerous occasions to Judges passing sentences or making rulings on points of law that affect the outcome of a trial. Listening to a judgment can give a clear view of what weight was placed to particular facts and arguments, as well as the impact of particular pieces of law on the outcome of a case.
I accept there are some legitimate concerns about allowing cameras into court, in particular the effect on witnesses testifying in major trials and victims of sexual offences. Yet these can best be dealt with by empowering the Judge in each case to decide if cameras should be allowed, and what they can show, based on clear criteria rather than the blanket ban that exists now. This would ensure the interests of justice can be balanced fairly against the legitimate public interest in the court process.
Cameras in court are not about creating show trials, but ensuring that justice is open and transparent.
Yours faithfully
Cllr Kevin Foster