No thematic inquiry into rape trials. Judges exercise discretion in rape trials. Special measures for vulnerable witnesses start today. Lord Chief Justice issues practice direction for rape case allocations. Senior Presiding Judge authorizes Circuit Judges and Recorders for rape cases. Judges attend Judicial Studies Board seminar on sexual offences before authorization. No outside inspection of judges' conduct before authorization. Lord Chief Justice can remove authorizations. All 35 Court of Appeal judges formerly High Court judges authorized for rape cases. All Court of Appeal judges hear rape appeals without extra authorization. Midland circuit lists over 50 authorized judges. North Eastern circuit lists over 40 authorized judges. Northern circuit lists over 40 authorized judges. South Eastern circuit lists over 100 authorized judges. Wales and Chester circuit lists 20 authorized judges. Western circuit lists 30 authorized judges. High Court Queen's Bench judges primarily hear rape cases. Authorizations sought by Presiding Judges in consultation with Resident Judges. Lord Chancellor concerned only suitable judges hear rape cases.