Fine inconsiderate campers who litter

Sir, - If people speed in cars we punish the individuals concerned.

Likewise, if people drink drive or use a mobile telephone while at the wheel they face charges.

At great cost we set up speed cameras or speed traps at blackspots, we use facial recognition software to identify who is actually driving the vehicle and after all is done, we ban those people who are caught breaking the law.

At no point would anyone suggest banning all drivers because some people speed.

Yet the banning of wild camping seems to be the default reaction to the problem of rural roadside litter.

There are problems across Scotland with litter and there is no onesize-fits-all solution.

Why should there be a ban on Loch Tummel but not on Loch Rannoch?

Will people be deterred from dropping litter because camping is banned?

The answer is no, for society is full of pig-ignorant people who will continue to drop litter until something forces them to change their habits.

Let’s be honest, many people walk round towns and cities dropping goodness knows what and no-one challenges them. Local authorities have the power to fine individuals up to £80 for dropping litter but often fail to do so.

So why on earth would these same people change their habits when in the countryside?

If the Scottish Government can change our shopping habits by imposing a mere 5p charge on plastic bags, what effect would the determined imposition of the £80 fine have on our littering habits? James Cassidy. 3 Beecraigs Way, Plains, Airdrie.

Mess left on a Scottish lochside by inconsiderate campers.