The interest in a British YouTuber on trial in Perth for rape has raised questions about the role of social media and the legal complications of court reporting.

The CCTV footage captures the moment the British YouTube star returns to the Intercontinental Hotel moments before it is alleged he bit, strangled, hit and raped a Perth woman.

The interest in a British YouTuber on trial in Perth for rape has raised questions about the role of social media and the legal complications of court reporting.