23 JUNE 2001, Page 24

Dangerous at 20mph

From Mr Laurence Kelvin Sir: Leo McKinstry may be correct when he says that speed cameras are a revenue-raising device, but misses the point about road safety (`Speed scam', 16 June).

Driving at 40mph on an empty, straight dual carriageway in a 30mph zone in dry conditions need not be dangerous, yet cameras are unable to take into account any factors apart from speed. What is needed is for police to take action against careless and dangerous driving, which can take place at 20mph in some circumstances.

An immediate improvement in road safety would come about by making the use of all mobile phones when driving an absolute offence.

Laurence Kelvin

London W9