Ex-minister in court on driving charges

Mr Robinson was driven to the court hearing

Former Treasury minister Geoffrey Robinson has pleaded not guilty to three motoring offences at a West Midlands magistrates court.

The former paymaster general faces charges of failing to provide a breath specimen, driving without insurance and driving other than in accordance with a licence.

The allegations came about after police stopped his Jaguar on the A454 in Walsall on 14 December.

The case was adjourned at Walsall Magistrates Court to 10 April.

More time

Mr Robinson, 64, who was driven to the court hearing, spoke only to confirm his name, address and age. He denied all charges.

The Coventry North West MP, of Godalming, Surrey, is not required to attend court on 10 April as the hearing is for administrative purposes.

Prosecutor Ruth Childs requested more time for the adjournment, to "tie up" with an ongoing police investigation into an unknown substance found in a police van where Mr Robinson was taken immediately after his arrest.

Mr Robinson is due to answer bail at Walsall Police Station on 4 April in relation to the substance, which was seized and which is being analysed by police experts.

He has denied any substance was found in his car.

Mr Robinson left the hearing with his solicitor, Mark Haslam.

He was driven away in a dark green Jaguar XJ8 outside the precinct.

The ex-minister made no comment as he left the court, saying only: "Thank you, I have got nothing to say."