Philips: greater flexibility Portable video link facilities have been introduced for the first time in the Court of Appeal's civil division.

The technology will allow courts 63 to 76 in the Royal Courts of Justice to conduct proceedings with parties located at remote centres, such as regional courts or private video conferencing venues.


The equipment is initially expected to be used in applications for permission to appeal and other short applications where parties would find it difficult to attend court.


It will eventually be used in a range of cases, but particularly those where costs savings can be made, disruption avoided or early listing achieved.


Cases involving children, prisoners or hospital patients are also likely to see the technology adopted, as will applications where parties would otherwise rack up costs and time in travelling.


The court will have the power to direct that a hearing by video link is appropriate in any case, but parties will also be able to request its use.



The Master of the Rolls, Lord Phillips, said: 'The addition of this portable equipment extends our ability to make the best use of technology in the courts, and to improve the service we provide.


'The portable equipment can be used in any of the civil appeal courts and will provide greater flexibility in the listing of cases, and allow those persons who are vulnerable or have difficulty in attending in person easier, and more affordable, access to courts.'


A copy of the protocol setting out the practice governing video conferencing in the Court of Appeal civil division is available from the Civil Appeals Office, room E307, Royal Courts of Justice, London WC2A 2LL.