Ex-roads minister Guy Opperman banned from driving for six months

Guy Opperman, 61, a former minister for roads and local transport, has been banned from driving for six months. He admitted speeding in Lambeth in May, when he was recorded driving at 25mph in a 20mph zone. The offence added four points to his licence, bringing his total to 12, which automatically triggers a ban.

Exceptional hardship claim rejected

Opperman appeared at Bromley Magistrates' Court on Friday, November 13. He argued that a driving ban would cause him exceptional hardship, stating he needed to drive his two young children, aged two and four, to different nurseries. He also mentioned his wife's upcoming work travel to the US, which would leave him as the sole caregiver.

Magistrates overruled his plea. Susan Polydorou, chair of the bench, stated that while the ban would be inconvenient, Opperman's circumstances did not meet the legal threshold for exceptional hardship. She noted that he appeared to have a tendency to speed. Opperman expressed shame and guilt over the proceedings, stating he had never been to court before.

Costs and fines

In addition to the driving ban, Opperman was ordered to pay £560. This amount includes a £307 fine, £130 in prosecution fees, and a £123 court surcharge. The introduction of 20mph speed limits across London is part of a joint initiative by local authorities, the Mayor of London, and the Metropolitan Police aimed at improving road safety for pedestrians and cyclists.