OK Vic, let’s see how my “perceived wisdom” stacks up by considering how the criminal justice system regards the two offences (until Mr Clarke has his way, that is).
The maximum penalty for Theft from a shop is seven years custody. That for speeding is a fine of £1,000 (£2,500 if on a motorway). Leaving aside maximum penalties (not a very appropriate comparison where Theft is concerned because of the wide range of seriousness the offence covers) the “starting point” used by magistrates for shoplifting is a community order, that for speeding (up to 40 in a 30 limit, up to 90 in a 70 limit) is a fine of half a week’s net income. Looking at what actually happens, people can and do receive community orders for shoplifting, they can and do go to prison for shoplifting. They do not do so for speeding however many times they commit the offence (no such disposals are available). Even the fixed penalty (not appropriate for theft in my view) is £80 for theft, £60 for speeding.
Yes some speeders are given the chance to take an awareness course instead of a fine and points. Similarly some shoplifters are given cautions.
I think, Vic, before you start cracking on about the shortcomings of my “perceived wisdom” (which I based solely on the facts outlined above) you might be well served to check out the facts yourself first.