Jack Straw, Justice Secretary, announced today (16 December) that members of the media will be allowed to access family court proceedings, following two consultations on the openness of family courts.
But Stephen Cobb QC, a member of the Family Justice Council, said allowing the media into family courts was disappointing and that the government had "disregarded" the views of children, young people and the organisations that protect, support and represent them.
"The council would like to see the family courts more open to public scrutiny and recognises that the media has a legitimate role to play in this," he said. "However, we believe that any changes to the family courts must primarily take into consideration the needs, interests and welfare of the children involved.
"Our view is that allowing the media into family proceedings exposes children and vulnerable adults, such as victims of domestic violence, forced marriage and adults with learning disabilities and mental health issues, to the risk of intrusion."
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