http://www.shropshirestar.com/news/publ ... 4499.shtml
Caution move in row over speed cameras
By JAMES WHITTAKER
First-time speeding offenders could be given a second chance in a new move to ease growing public anger over the use of roadside cameras.
The move, which could see those caught just a few miles per hour over the limit given a caution rather than getting a £60 fine and three points, has been put forward by Chief Constable of North Wales Richard Brunstrom, who is one of the most vocal supporters of cameras.
Mr Brunstrom, who is the head of road policing for the Association of Chief Police Officers, said in an interview that officers didn't want to persecute motorists. He said a new policy would be formally announced shortly which would also see motorists given the chance to pay £200 to go on a driving improvement course.
But if they are caught speeding again after being cautioned, the driver would then have the points added to their licence.
"At present speed cameras are very black and white," said Mr Brunstrom in an interview with the Police Federation's magazine Police. "Either nothing happens or you get three points and a fine. "We obviously need a national scheme that will give drivers who are caught for the first time the option of a formal warning and retraining, as we do for careless driving now. "We will be unveiling a national scheme in the near future which will take a lot of heat out of the issue."
A spokeswoman for North Wales constabulary said that Mr Brunstrom, who has always defended speed cameras, would not make any further comment on the issue.
Telford speed camera campaigner John Evans, from Randlay, said he welcomed the news that the controversial camera policy could be reviewed. "I am pleasantly surprised that he has begun to see reason. I think a caution for first time offenders would be a decent compromise. It would be an appropriate measure that fits the offence rather than immediately making people feel like criminals."