Broadcasters will be allowed to cover live some of the proceedings in high-profile criminal trials and civil disputes, ministers have decided.

It was expected that Lord Falconer, the lord chancellor, would limit the use of cameras in courtrooms to appeals in the Royal Courts of Justice.

But the document discloses that Falconer has won cabinet approval to expand the scheme to criminal trials as well. This could mean that if the London bombing suspects were brought to trial, part of their hearings could be screened on national television.

However, the government has placed strict conditions on the coverage so as to strike a balance between demystifying the judicial system and protecting the identity of witnesses who give evidence in court. In all cases only the judge will be shown in camera shot, not the defendants, lawyers, jurors or witnesses.

Ministers have included the safeguards so that witnesses are not discouraged from coming forward and to prevent the risk of participants “playing up to the camera” or changing their behaviour because of television coverage.

It will also be within the discretion of the judge to refuse broadcasters access where the case is regarded as too sensitive or if there is a risk of prejudicing another trial.

The leaked memo states that coverage will be allowed for: oAll judgments in open court in civil proceedings, including those handed down in the Court of Appeal. oPassing of sentences or acquittals in open court in criminal trials in the crown courts. oA judge’s summing up in open court in criminal trials in crown court, subject to the proviso that both prosecution and defence agree.

The decision to allow in the cameras follows a consultation with lawyers and broadcasters and the operation of a six-week pilot project. Cherie Booth, the prime minister’s wife, was among the lawyers filmed and another televised appeal case involved the dispute between Hello! and its rival magazine OK! over the pictures of the wedding of Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones.

The remote-control cameras focused on barristers and judges. They were not allowed to “fast-pan” or zoom in.

Judges will still have a veto if they feel televising a case is not in the public interest.

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