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MP challenges Scotland's safety cameras

Safety cameras in Scotland have generated almost £20m in fines in the past five years.

The revenue has risen by 1800% since 2000. At that time fines generated from cameras amounted to £450,000. In 2005, the figure was £8.5m.

The statistics were issued in response to a parliamentary question on speeding and road deaths from the SNP's Christine Grahame.

Justice Minister Cathy Jamieson gave the exact amount raised from Scotland's cameras, but was unable to say how many people had been killed as a result of speeding.

Christine Grahame said: "The argument being put forward by police forces is that these cameras are not mere revenue earners but are saving lives.

"So I also asked for figures on the number of deaths on Scottish roads over the same period, which were caused by speeding. Incredibly, Scottish ministers and the police do not know.

"I am very happy to support the use of speed cameras but we require evidence that where they are located has reduced deaths on Scottish roads, because the perception is that where they are being placed is simply to fleece motorists."

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