25.—(1) In any trial with a jury—

(a) the jurors may, at any time before they retire to consider their verdict, separate unless the judge otherwise directs, and

(b) the jurors may, after they retire to consider their verdict, only separate for such period or periods as the judge directs.

(2) A direction under subsection (1)(b) may be given in respect of a jury whether or not the jury is present when the direction is given.]