Speeding motorists could be the winners in a national postal dispute, according to leading lawyer Mr Loophole.

Mr Freeman - aka Mr Loophole - said delays to the 14-day period which a speed camera notice of intended prosecution must be issued and received could lead to drivers being acquitted, irrespective of guilt. Mr Freeman said:

"This is a classic loophole argument. A postal strike is potentially advantageous for the motorist's point of view. If the notice of intended prosecution arrives outside the 14 day period, the proceedings may well be void even if the driver has accepted responsibility."

However, Mr Freeman added those issued with a summons claiming it arrived after two weeks would either have to give evidence on oath or write to the central ticket office because the burden of proof is on the motorist.

His advice was to keep hold of the stamped or franked envelope in which the summons or fixed penalty notice arrived to support their case.