The change means the law in Northern Ireland is diverging from the rest of the UKNew laws have come into force in Northern Ireland, which will grant anonymity to people suspected of sexual offences until they are charged.Northern Ireland is the first part of the UK to put these measures into law.
The bill was brought forward by the then Justice Minister Naomi Long after a review of laws and procedures relating to sexual offences. From Thursday, people who are being investigated by the police on suspicion of sexual offences will have their anonymity protected unless they are charged.The provision for anonymity ends at the point at which a suspect is charged.
The change to the law on who can attend sexual offences cases in the Crown Court means that access will be restricted to people directly involved in the proceedings, and to "bona fide" journalists.The alleged victim will also be able to nominate one friend or relative to attend, and the accused will be able to do the same.