THE BATTLE AGAINST MOTORISTS SIR.—My reaction to the letter submitted
by your correspondent who hides behind the pseudonym CND was one of incredulity; I then wondered if it had been concocted in your office in order to start a 'war.'
I fully agree that motorists, campers, and caravanners who are stupid enough or inconsiderate enough to ignore the 'country code' should have their bad behaviour brought home to them, but not through the actions of equally stupid individuals taking the law into their own hands. The Camping Club and the Caravan Club insist that observation of the country code is a prerequisite of membership, and it is quite in order for a member of the public to report a defaulting member to that member's headquarters. I am sure, also, that neither the AA nor the RAC would look favourably on the con- tinued membership of an individual whose behaviour was an affront to country dwellers.
The problem of dirt and fouling at lay-bys is a problem that cannot be dismissed by mere con- demnation. All types of road-user now make use of the most inadequate provisions of lay-bys, etc., and it should now be the policy of central government or local authority to provide toilet and parking facilities on main trunk routes, as is the policy on the motorways. The litter lout needs stiffer handling; the present penalty is inadequate. A possible solution would be to treat him as he is treated abroad—give him a couple of miles or so of road to clear of litter.
Having said this, I now wish to deal with that part of your correspondent's letter to which I take great exception, that is, the ridiculous proposition that one should commend individual action that is offensive, if not downright criminal. I would suggest, sir, that it might be better if your correspondent's sharp, pointed device, which is fired by compressed air, should be directed into his carcase to let out some of the hot air and spleen, and to let in a little of the humility to which he so sanctimoniously professes. Alternatively, if he is sincere, he might do well to consult his psychiatrist in order to be relieved of his obsession.
F. G. LARGE Skippool Cottage, 152 Breck Road,
Poulton le Fylde, Lancashire
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