A Liberal Democrat peer, who has faced a driving ban for the second time this year, stated that the outcome was the most favorable he could hope for.
Lord Tim Razzall acknowledged that he ran a red light and received a two-week discretionary driving ban from Westminster Magistrates’ Court earlier in the day.
The 82-year-old resident of Notting Hill, West London, was operating a Volkswagen Polo at the intersection of Grosvenor Road and Chelsea Bridge Road on March 13.
He explained that the traffic on the Embankment was quite congested, making it difficult to react promptly to the traffic signal. Earlier in July, he had been disqualified for the same duration due to speeding.
When asked to stand and state his plea, the former treasurer of the Liberal Democrats said, “Well, I clearly admit my guilt, yes.”
Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring informed Lord Razzall, who appeared without legal counsel, that had both offenses been addressed simultaneously, he would have faced a total of 14 days of disqualification.
“In essence, Mr. Razzall is, in effect, receiving an additional 14 days’ ban,” he remarked.
Towards the end of the session, Lord Razzall, who had his Daunt Books tote bag resting on the railing, expressed relief that there were no reporters in the courtroom this time, unlike during his previous appearance.
The chief magistrate glanced toward the public seating and commented, “I believe there are some.”
Before departing in a black cab, Lord Razzall shared with reporters, “It’s a bit unfortunate that had this been considered earlier, I wouldn’t have faced another disqualification.”
When asked if he was satisfied with the ruling, he replied, “Well, it’s the best I could achieve, yes.”
“It was really heavy traffic, even more so than this,” he said, gesturing toward the busy Marylebone Road outside the court.
“It’s rather challenging along the Embankment; with such dense traffic, one doesn’t always react quickly enough to the lights.”
He added, “I believe I was heading towards Holland Park while driving along the Embankment.”
Lord Razzall was ordered to pay a total of £410, which includes a £200 fine.
