Letter: Slow down

Geoffrey Lean describes John Prescott's efforts as deadlock breaker in Kyoto (14 December). Let's hope he has conserved some energy to achieve cuts in greenhouse gases in this country.

His department's integrated transport policy to be published early next year will be an early indication of his resolve. The Oxford Environmental Change Unit has found that 20 per cent of drivers are responsible for 50 per cent of car miles travelled and that these are mostly highly paid men in company cars.

If the speed limit were 55mph, fewer miles would be travelled, more safely, with greater fuel efficiency, so producing a sizeable reduction in CO2 emissions.

If Messrs Prescott and Meacher can face up to world leaders it would be disappointing if they can't face up to the man in the Mondeo.

Ronald Sharp

Abingdon, Oxon