RIGHT TO APPEAL

RIGHT TO APPEAL

Sir,

was most interested to read of the unhappy plight of thedriver charged with careless driving at Fordingbridge (” Are we becoming a Police State ?” March, 1960).

While sympathising with his predicament, I do feel that some of his grievances -could have been remedied by appealing (corn the decision of the Magistrates’ Court to Quarter Sessions against his conviction. Here he would have had a chance to instruct a solicitor and counsel, who are not ” defeatist hacks “; the Sessions would be presided over by a professional Chairman and the obviously bodged evidence would be recorded in all its glory for the appeal. Admittedly, this would Exist him a little more, but I should imagine that the relief to his blood pressure upon his appeal being upheld. would be worth it. What a pity, though. that an added fine of five shillings has to be paid to relieve oneself of the stigma of an endorsement before the licence expires. Incidentally, many congratulations on an enthusiastic magazine. which I always look forward to reading • I am, Yours, etc..,

Holcombe. M. R. ASHMAN. •