Calls For Lessons Over Marginal Speeding

The number of drivers caught speeding marginally over the limit is rising in Fife.

Conservative MSPs want ministers to consider offering awareness courses instead of fines or points.

The scheme already operates in parts of England and Wales.

Figures show traffic crimes are up in Scotland and account for four in every ten convictions.
 
Transport minister Derek Mackay has said he supports 'the concept of offering driver education as an alternative to prosecution where appropriate' and that evidence is now being collected to see if such a move may be feasible.

Down south, officers can decide if an offence merits a fine, points or an awareness course, where in Scotland a report of any offence must be sent to the procurator fiscal, which then decides the appropriate course of action.

Scottish Conservative justice spokeswoman Margaret Mitchell said:
 
"Given the increase in traffic convictions, it is surely time to consider an alternative for those who are not significantly over the speed limit.
 
"Offering speed awareness courses would be a more effective alternative to points and a hefty fine.
 
"Involvement in such a scheme is aimed at helping improve safety by promoting better driving behaviour.
 
"In addition to this, motorists - many of whom rely on their car for work and family - consider they are being disproportionately targeted by overzealous crackdowns.
 
"I'm glad therefore that the Scottish Government is now looking at this in an effort to put in place a fairer system which prioritises safer driving."