Speed camera fine probe



Camera ... fines could be KO’d by signature dodge




By LYNDSEY WEATHERALL

THOUSANDS of drivers could write off speeding fines simply by refusing to SIGN forms sent out by the police, it emerged yesterday.

An amazing loophole in the law means motorists can escape conviction if they leave the space for their names blank.

The law requires them to fill in forms supplying information requested by cops — but does NOT oblige them to provide a signature. And if the forms are unsigned they lose their validity as evidence in court.

Last night Home Office officials were urgently investigating the “weakness” in the system.

The get-out came to light during a court case in which motorist Phillip Dennis, 34, was let off by magistrates.

Phillip’s car had set off a camera and he was sent a form requiring him to give details of who was at the wheel.

The law states that the “registered keeper” of a vehicle must supply this information or risk a fine of as much as £2,500.

Phillip, of Holywell, North Wales, filled in the form but sent it back without signing it.

When his case came up before Flintshire Magistrates the court clerk noticed the omission.

Chairman John Beard said cops ought to ensure the form was signed.

But the clerk advised him that, as the law now stands, they had no power to do so.

Mr Beard then said he had no choice but to find Phillip not guilty — sparing him three penalty points and a £60 fine.

Last night authorities feared the case could open the floodgates.

The Home Office said: “We are aware of this weakness and are looking into it to take action.”

Association of Chief Police Officers spokesman Peter Shipley confirmed: “Officers do not have the power to force people to sign.”

Claire Price of the AA said: “We had no idea this loophole existed. It’s hard to believe it has taken years to arise.”
The RAC Foundation’s Edmund King warned: “This could make speed cameras ineffective.”