In proceedings in respect of the contravention of any statute or order, where each contravention involves any of the following punishments, namely, imprisonment, the imposition of a fine, the finding of caution for good behaviour or otherwise, either singly or in combination with imprisonment or fine, the court shall have in addition to any other powers conferred by Act of Parliament the following powers, viz.:—
(1)to reduce the period of imprisonment:
(2)to substitute for imprisonment (either with or without caution for good behaviour, not exceeding an amount of £150 and a period of 12 months a fine as provided in the following table:—
| Period of imprisonment ... | Amount of fine. |
|---|---|
| Not exceeding three months | Not exceeding £100. |
| Exceeding three months but not exceeding six months | Not exceeding £200. |
| Exceeding six months but not exceeding one year | Not exceeding £400. |
| Over one year | Such fine as the court may, in its discretion, decide |
(3)to substitute the finding of caution not exceeding the amount of £150 and the period of 12 months for a fine or imprisonment:
(4)to reduce the amount of any fine:
(5)to dispense with the finding of caution:
Provided that,
(i)where any Act carries into effect a treaty, convention, or agreement with a foreign state, and such treaty, convention, or agreement stipulates for a fine of minimum amount, the court shall not be entitled by virtue of this section to reduce the amount of such fine below that minimum amount;
(ii)this section shall not apply to proceedings taken under any Act relating to any of Her Majesty's regular or auxiliary forces.