I WRITE in response to Neil Thompson’s letter (Oxford Mail, August 1), The saga goes on.) I believe his acceptance that tail-gating isn’t justified was made somewhat with tongue in cheek, followed by the suggestion that I make more liberal use of the throttle.

He also accuses me of acting as the injured party, a mantle I have never assumed, not even on both occasions I emerged unscathed when my car was almost totalled by tail-gating drivers, on both occasions in which I was in a stream of traffic, where liberal use of the throttle wouldn’t have had any benefit, certainly not to the vehicle in front of me.

I also accept your claim that there is no legal requirement to move aside for an emergency vehicle, that it is a matter of courtesy, as is leaving ample room between yourself and the vehicle in front.

I also note a comment in a recent letter from Clive Harrison that I learn to use “defensive” driving techniques.

I’m fully aware of what’s required in employing defensive tactics when driving; surely this is only required to combat “offensive” driving, such as tail-gating.

Ian respectfully suggested that I drop the subject, surely, due to his latest letter a case of pot and kettle, he also, equally respectfully in one of his earlier letters suggested that I choose another subject and was kind enough to list several, including the state of the NHS.

In this I’m only too happy to oblige and for my subject matter I’ll choose the NHS and take the liberty of setting the ball rolling.Bring back Matron!

KEN ROPER, Morton Avenue, Kidlington