WHILST I applaud the government's idea of imposing a fine of £60 on uninsured drivers by the use of insurance companies records, I suggest the sum is paltry in comparison to the threat posed.

Most offenders will pass it off as a minor hazard, just as those banned do at present.

A more effective deterrent would be a bigger sum or hard labour for those who can't or won't pay.

They should also have their photo and details widely published to prevent them from hiding under the blanket of anonymity and enable the general public report them should break the banning order.

As for those who constantly disregard the safety of pedestrians by parking on pavements, a fine of £100 in the first instance and £500 for the second offence with the surrender of their licence for life on the third.

This should be imposed on the drink-drive fraternity at the first offence.

I accept such ideas may be considered radical, harsh or unmanageable by some, but if one considers the number of vehicles on the roads and those forecast for the future, the damage to the environment and the loss of lives.

R HARVEY-MORGAN SNR, Barnes Avenue, Rawtenstall.