Motorists in Birmingham today gave a mixed reception to news of the great speed camera cash bonanza. Some believed that they are nothing more than a new form of tax, but others said speeding drivers deserved to be caught. James Raine, aged 22, an accountant from Edgbaston said: I was caught recently by a camera in South Wales, but I suppose if I was speeding then it was my own fault. I can see both sides of the argument of whether they just raise money for the authorities or are necessary safety measures. Linda Doughty, aged 41, a recruitment manager from Pype Hayes, said: I have been through cameras too fast but so far I have got away with it. Places like the Bristol Road are terrible for them, I think there are far too many. I dont think they put them where they should be, but choose the spots where they think people will get caught. Basically people speed between them and then put the brakes on, so I dont think they are that effective. Terry Higgs, aged 63, a taxi driver from Castle Bromwich, said: They are clearly marked so I dont think people can have cause for complaint if they are caught. People drive far too fast and they deserve to be caught if they are speeding. Neil Harvey, aged 39, a construction manager from Wednesbury, said: I do about 40,000 miles a year and the numbers of cameras you see is just ridiculous. You have them on things like dual carriageways with a 40 mph limit, and theyre clearly there to catch people speeding. Drivers also are constantly looking for the cameras instead of watching the road, and some people brake suddenly which can be more dangerous. Rachel Hitchins, aged 36, a human resources officer from Coventry, said: They certainly shouldnt be put on roads like dual carriageways which have a speed limit which is too low. I think they are out for the money. If they were on roads like back streets or near schools where there is real danger, then people would support it more. | 
