Sir – Richard Ashworth MEP thinks that technology to ensure cars follow speed limits automatically would erode ‘freedoms’ (Letters, September 12).

I don’t know where this idea comes from; I always thought that driving a car was about getting from A to B, not a means of expressing ‘freedoms’. This technology would actually solve a lot of problems.

For one thing it would curb the ‘freedoms’ of those who think it’s acceptable to cruise through the centre of my community at the 40-50mph, which is the typical car speed outside of the rush hour.

It would also mean an end to joyriding-related vehicle theft and the lethally dangerous police chases that often ensue. It would give ram-raiders and bank robbers one less option for getting away from crime scenes. It would mean eventually doing away with speed cameras and road humps.

‘Motoring organisations’ might think it’s safer to leave drivers in complete control of their vehicles but the trend has always been to take controls away. Innovations such as anti-lock brakes and the automatic choke are now standard on all cars and even automatic spark plug timing was innovative in its day.

Many cars have optional automatic headlights, wipers, gears and traction control. Taking these distractions away allows drivers to concentrate on the task in hand — ie staying on the road and trying not to maim less vulnerable road users.

I don’t see why automating an element of speed control should be any different. Were this technology introduced, those wishing to exercise the ‘freedom’ of fast driving could do so away from our communities, on the Isle of Man, German autobahns, or on track days at the UK’s many racing circuits.

Noam Bleicher, Oxford