MP loses appeal over driving ban

MP Brian Binley built up 12 points on his licence for speeding

An MP, who tried to get a driving ban overturned by claiming it would harm his constituents, has lost his appeal.

Brian Binley, MP for Northampton South, totted up 12 points on his licence when caught doing 37mph in a 30mph zone in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire.

The 65-year-old MP, with nine points already, was given three more and a ban in March, by Towcester magistrates.

Judge Richard Bray at Northampton Crown Court confirmed the six-month ban because he had the resources to cope.

Mr Binley, caught speeding in August last year, claimed he needed his car to reach constituents in his rural seat.

Judge Bray, rejecting the appeal, said: "Though we accept that there can be inconveniences for him, we find that he has the resources to provide transport for himself during the short six-month disqualification."

Speaking after the hearing Mr Binley said: "If anyone wants proof of the inconsistency in this area of law, they have just found it."