Tuesday 14 March 2017

Over 17,000 offences attract a fine while for many fines can be inconvenient, socially and economically disadvantaged people can experience hardship from accumulated fines. The fines commission has been required to cancel the driver’s licence or car registration of someone who defaults on their fine before taking other civil action, but for some debtors, this can mean not being able to work and falling further into debt.

In Parliament I supported a government bill to provide more flexibility in enforcing a fine. During debate I called for more guidance in considering a fine defaulter’s personal circumstances to ensure the process is comprehensive and guarantees fairness. My speech is HERE.