Criminal Procedure Act, 1967

Power to exclude public.

[1951, s. 20(1) (a)].

16.—(1) Subject to the provisions of this section and any other enactment, a preliminary examination shall be in open court.

(2) Where the court is satisfied, because of the nature or circumstances of the case or otherwise in the interests of justice, that it is desirable, the court may exclude the public or any particular portion of the public or any particular person or persons except bona fide representatives of the Press from the court during the hearing.

(3) Subsection (2) is without prejudice to the right of a parent, relative or friend of the accused or of an injured party to remain in court in any case to which section 20 (4) of the Criminal Justice Act, 1951 , applies.