A solicitor of the Supreme Court may appear in, conduct, defend and address the court in any proceedings in the Crown Court, other than proceedings of such description (if any) as may from time to time be specified in directions given by the Lord Chief Justice under this section.

In considering whether to exercise his powers under this section the Lord Chief Justice shall have regard to any rights of audience heretofore exercised by solicitors at any trials on indictment and to any other circumstances affecting the public interest.

Any direction given under this section may be subject to such conditions and restrictions as appear to the Lord Chief Justice to be necessary or expedient.

Nothing in this section shall take away or affect the inherent powers of any court or judge to confer a right of audience.