POLICE have suspended use of all laser speed guns following a court case in Folkestone.

Officers across the district were sent an email stating: "Following a court case at Folkestone and in liaison with the Criminal Justice Unit (traffic) a review of speed enforcement policy is to be made regarding the use of all laser speed guns in South Kent.

"Pending this review, NO further fixed penalty notices or summons should be issued."

The email was dated October 4 and said it was hoped the review would be completed within weeks. It was signed by roads policing officer Phil Sharp and said officers would be notified of 'any changes in policy required before any further enforcement takes place’.

In a statement issued this week, police spokesman Rosie Alexander, said that Laser guns form only a tiny proportion of the speed detection devices used in Kent.

She said: “We have a variety of ways of enforcing the speed limit, including the issuing of tickets by the Kent and Medway Camera Safety Partnership, which is responsible for fixed cameras and camera vans in places with a higher level of road casualties.

“We would stress that speeding enforcement has an important role in keeping our roads safe for all users and Kent Police continues to enforce the law on the counties roads 24 hours a day.

“Hand-held laser guns are used at local level in response to community concerns about speeding and road safety. Their use has been temporarily withdrawn in the South Kent policing area following a recent court case, to ensure that officers are aware of and follow the appropriate policy and manufacturers instructions for their use.

“Other forms of speed enforcement will continue to be used in the area.”