THE Bury Times recently reported on the approval by the traffic and highways management committee of an increase in parking fees. In these days an increase of 5p is minimal, but the powers-that-be seem to be using the "just short of a pound" ploy from the retail trade to con the motorist.

Ticket machines do not give change and at least four coins will be required to insert 95p. To save time, and due to a shortage of small change, many people will inevitably use a pound coin. This extra 5p will result in a considerable amount of extra income over a 12-month period.

Accounts for 1998-99 for the highways department showed an underspend and when this was queried, I think by Councillor Gunther, she was told that it was due to a higher income from the car parks than had been budgeted for. It is therefore safe to assume that the same thing will occur this year and so the justification for the increase is undoubtedly in question.

The Bury Times reported that two councillors had expressed concern regarding the increases, Labour member Winston Ramsey and Conservative Dorothy Gunther. As the voting was 6-1 for the change, does that mean that Councillor Ramsey ultimately did not have the courage of his convictions and voted in favour?

A. WITHINGTON,

Wellington Road, Bury.

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