Lib Dems back metric martyr pardon campaign as imperial measures look set to return

Lib Dem councillors on Wearside have backed a campaign for an official pardon for Sunderland greengrocer and 'metric martyr' Steve Thoburn.

It comes as the Government looks set to change the law to allow traders to sell items only using imperial measurements if they so wish.

Sunderland greengrocer Steve Thoburn was convicted for selling fruit and vegetables in pounds and ounces, despite always offering products in metric measurements for any customer who wanted it.

Commenting, Lib Dem councillor for Grindon and Thorney Close Paul Edgeworth said:

"Businesses should be able to sell their products in whichever system of measurements their customers want, so I welcome the Government's plan to give traders the freedom to sell in imperial measures if they so wish.

"It has always been ridiculous that Steve Thoburn was fined by Sunderland Council for selling bananas in pounds and ounces. Now that the Government seems to agree they should listen to campaigners and the Thoburn family, have the conviction disregarded and issue a posthumous pardon."