I AM rather concerned about the reasons given for the turning on of the speed cameras in April next year.

First of all we are told that this cost is being borne by the police and not the county council.

But this is the same difference as far as I am concerned. The cost will still come from council tax payers as that is how the police their funded.

And their reason for doing this, they say, is because of their concern over an increase in speeding, and to prevent any increase of loss of life or injury.

In April, before they’ve introduced speed cameras, perhaps the police will tell us of these increases.

I suspect not, though, because, since the introduction of cameras, deaths and injuries on our roads have increased.

I suspect that the real reason for their re-introduction will see a large increase in the police offering drivers caught speeding the option of attending a speed awareness course,which at present will cost £60.

I understand this is to be increased, or drivers will receive a fine and three points on their licence. It is quite obvious that the drivers will accept the course.

The reason I say this is that the money received through these courses is retained by the police, whereas the money received from speed cameras has to go to central government.

The money received through these speed advisory courses can raise millions, easily making more money for the police than the cost of maintaining speed cameras.

So their re-introduction is not for our safety, but as a cash cow for police funds.

Norman V Roper, Stow Avenue, Witney