BBC, ITN and Sky News have welcomed today’s announcement that cameras are to be allowed in British courts.

This morning, it was confirmed in the Queen’s Speech that measures to allow news cameras in courts throughout England and Wales will be introduced over the course of the next Parliament as part of the Crime and Courts Bill.

It follows a cross-broadcaster lobbying campaign and the BBC, ITN and Sky News hailed the move as a significant step in their coverage of the legal process.

“Following years of campaigning, we welcome this historic reform that marks an important step for democracy and open justice,” they said in a joint-statement.

“The presence of cameras in our courtrooms will lead to greater public engagement and understanding of our legal system. We look forward to working closely with the judiciary and the Government to ensure that justice will now truly be seen to be done.”

Limitations on what can be broadcast, controlled by the presiding judge, will remain in effect and it is anticipated that broadcasters will be limited to filming judges’ comments – rather than evidence from witnesses.

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