Yes, it probably is a money spinner but AFAIK there's a general Policing view that little but flagrant law breaking such as illegal number plates gives a clue about the general attitude to breaking the Law and often leads to much, much more significant criminality such as things that have been mentioned like no MoT/insurance/drink/drugs etc. etc. Someone has made a deliberate decision to change their plate to something that's illegal.

The vast majority of "altered" plates I see are driven by drivers who seem to have no respect or care for any other road user. Me, me, me. Get out of my way. I'm important. Things to do. Places to go. Deals to do. How dare you use MY road....etc.

Stay safe out there.

Bottom line, there's a standard for the reason. If people where using illegal tyres or brakes by choice then it would be a hung court.

This is a by product of Brexit, with EU having to come of number plates etc now, so they are using this as the excuse to standardise and nationally fine illegal number plates.

I don't see the problem. But then, I also don't deliberately flout a law that is an easy fine. In NI its the easiest way to get your car lifted. Especially if your at a car event, show or meet.

OK so they are going to use enhanced ANPR systems. Illegal number plates have always been an issue legally.... The rules are laid out in law, and always have been. I have always hated Italic number plate fonts on a personal basis..... :}

Our much loved DVLA decides number plates, leaving the EU encouraged our Wise Men to ban . . . the EU flag appearing on new plates. See https://www.bnma.org/news/30nov20-an...ted-01jan21/re

As they should - we have left the EU. You are free to carry on using your current plates with the flag on them if you want.

is there a link detailing this initiative please. I've searched but I can't find it.

See here

https://www.carreg.co.uk/carreg-news...plates-banned/

I have used 'metro' font plates for many years with a black border around them. It's a marginally bolder or broader font than standard . Never had an issue or query about them but not mis spaced trying to spell something they are not. I'll take my chances.