Former roads minister Guy Opperman banned from driving
Bromley Magistrates' Court overruled his exceptional hardship claim after admitting speeding in a 20mph zone.
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Guy Opperman, 61, has been handed a six-month driving prohibition after admitting to a speeding offence in south London. The former roads minister already had nine penalty points on his licence from previous speeding incidents before this latest offence brought his total to 12.
The offence occurred in May when Opperman was recorded driving his SUV at 25mph in a 20mph zone in Lambeth. He appeared at Bromley Magistrates’ Court on Friday, November 13, where he pleaded guilty. The court heard that Opperman had previously served as minister for roads and local transport.
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Exceptional hardship claim rejected
Opperman argued that a driving ban would cause exceptional hardship, stating he needed his licence to transport his two young children to different nurseries. He told magistrates he felt "great shame and guilt" and described himself as "an idiot", adding he had never been to court before. He also mentioned his wife's upcoming work travel to the US, which would leave him as the sole caregiver for their children.
However, magistrates overruled his argument. Susan Polydorou, chair of the bench, noted that while the ban would be inconvenient, Opperman's circumstances did not meet the threshold for exceptional hardship. She also commented that "You do seem to have a propensity to speed."
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Costs and fines
In addition to the driving ban, Opperman was ordered to pay £560. This sum includes a £307 fine, £130 in prosecution fees, and a £123 court surcharge. Reports indicated that Opperman was seen cycling away from the court after the proceedings.
The introduction of 20mph speed limits in London is part of a joint initiative by local authorities, the Mayor of London, and the Metropolitan Police aimed at enhancing road safety for pedestrians and cyclists. Many streets across inner London now have these lower speed limits.
Questions this report answers
+Why was Guy Opperman banned from driving?
Guy Opperman was banned from driving for six months after admitting to speeding in a 20mph zone in Lambeth. He already had nine points on his licence from previous offences, and this latest incident took him to 12 points.
+Did Guy Opperman's claim of exceptional hardship succeed?
No, magistrates overruled Guy Opperman's claim of exceptional hardship. He argued he needed to drive his children to nurseries, but the court found his circumstances did not meet the required threshold for an exemption.
+How much did Guy Opperman have to pay?
Guy Opperman was ordered to pay a total of £560. This amount comprises a £307 fine, £130 for prosecution fees, and a £123 court surcharge.
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