1/3/2006

THE number of fixed penalties and prosecutions for speeding on roads in Wales has risen by a staggering 732 per cent since 1998, Welsh Conservatives revealed today.

Transport spokesman Alun Cairns AM said: "The increase in the number of speeding fines is startling. On the basis that each fine will cost the motorist £60 the total income to the government is in excess of £12 million from Wales alone.

"There now needs to be a review of the location of speed cameras in Wales. The need for cameras through towns and villages and outside schools is essential to protect pedestrians and motorists. However, the siting of cameras on fast roads and motorways should be questioned unless the true intention is to reduce accidents.

"Based on these figures, motorists could be forgiven for thinking that speed cameras are merely an additional revenue raising source for the government rather an initiative to reduce accidents."