IHAVE just received a fixed penalty notice for driving at 35mph in a 30mph zone. I intend to pay up and smile, but I have a few points to make about the legality of this method of fining people.

Q. Can I have a copy of the photograph?

A. No. If you wish to view the photograph an appointment can be made where a police officer will explain the photograph.

Q. Can I have a copy of the calibration certificate?

A. No. It is correct and meets the required standards.

Q. Are my human rights infringed if I respond to this notice?

A. No. You are still obliged to provide the information as requested. Failure to do so will result in prosecution.

So, you are accused and fined without a shred of evidence being produced and effectively being told to shut up and pay up. In another Q and A, a veiled threat is made that if you take the matter to court the result may be a higher fine, plus court costs.

I, therefore, think that my human rights are being infringed, but I can do nothing about it.

If our police or county/town councils need a cash injection in future, what is to stop them lowering the fining speeds and sending off even more fine notices?

We'd never be able to prove it.

Name and address received.