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Wrexham magistrate quits rather than enforce 20mph law

A magistrate has stepped down because he does not agree with Wales' new 20mph speed limit.

24 October 2023 · 22:11 UTC

A magistrate in Wrexham, Wales, has resigned from his position after 18 years, citing his disagreement with the new 20mph speed limit in the country. Nick Colbourne, a former police officer and councillor, expressed unease about punishing motorists with fines, penalty points, and court costs for violating the 20mph limit, which he deemed unfair.

Colbourne believed that not all areas warranted such a low speed limit and argued that it wouldn't deter reckless drivers. He also expressed concern about the backlog of motoring cases in the courts. Welsh Labour ministers defended the speed limit, stating that it was saving lives and enhancing safety in communities.