Bridgend’s Conservative MP, Jamie Wallis, has been handed a £2,500 fine and a 6-month driving ban after being found guilty of three offences arising from a crash in Cowbridge in November 2021.
BBC Wales reports that Wallis was found guilty of failing to report an accident, failing to stop and leaving a vehicle in a dangerous position. He was cleared of the more serious charge of driving without due care and attention.
The MP has already been fined £270 and given three licence points for failing to comply with road markings.
In their defence, Wallis reportedly told Cardiff Magistrates’ Court that they feared being attacked immediately following the accident. It was also said they were suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) after being the victim of a rape in London a few months prior. They claimed the accident was caused by swerving to avoid a cat.
The PTSD defence was rejected by the judge. They said, “(Wallis) was not prevented through PTSD to give details or particulars and report the accident soon after, he made a decision he didn’t want to be there, and made a decision to ring his father.”
Even if Jamie Wallis’ longer-term political future doesn’t look that great – with Labour overwhelming favourites to retake Bridgend (or its successor seat) at the next UK general election – those expecting a recall or resignation are likely to be disappointed.
The offence and punishment fall far short of the threshold needed to hold a recall petition, while there are no indications yet that Wallis will be investigated by the UK Parliament’s Standards Committee or intends to resign.
