If ever proof was needed that the Government is being vindictive to the motorist, fining a motorist £80 for entering a bus lane is it.

What possible harm would it do if the bus lane is empty? This has nothing to do with safety. Its purpose is to cause more congestion to justify congestion charging while stealing yet more cash at the same time.

A Department of Transport spokesman said: "There must be the greatest movement of the greatest number of people in the shortest time - and that means on buses."

Buses have their use for people who are too young to drive, are unfit through physical or mental infirmity or cannot afford a car or motorcycle.

They are unlikely to be the greatest wealth producers. One cannot imagine a captain of industry riding on a bus.

Time is money and buses should not have priority. Bus lanes reduce road width and cause congestion and it is incredible they were even considered.

Transport is the life-blood of the economy and the roads and rail are its arteries.

The railways are already running beyond their capacity. Air travel is too expensive or inconvenient for most journeys.

It is vital road traffic should travel as quickly as possible commensurate with safety. It should also cost as little as possible since it affects the price of everything that has to travel by road.

People need to be able to park within easy walking distance of their destination. If not, they will take their business elsewhere.

-Christopher Gould, Georgia Avenue, Worthing