Brussels spouts

SIR,

It should be realised that the EU’s dictum under which pre-’86 cars could be banned has nothing to do with safety or emissions. It is to do with car makers and their associates lobbying the commissioners.

Getting rid of pre-’86 cars has huge advantages for the motor industry, and none for anyone else. Spare-part inventories can be ditched, dealers will no longer be plagued by motorists tying to keep their cars on the road and new cars can be made even more profitably because they will have a short, finite life. Abolition of old can will ensure increased sales of new models. At least in theory.

The real issue here is that we could be about to lose the freedom to use the old cars we love because they may be swept into the catch-all tar-trap created by EU mindlessness. Unrelenting pressure must be applied to those who would govern us, both elected and passengering on the Brussels gravy train for unaccountable Eurocrats and failed politicians.

We seem able to mobilise ourselves for rallies and good times, so we should do the same now there is a real threat. Maybe all the old-car magazines could show a united front and lead the charge.

I am yours etc,

IAN FRASER, GARBOLDISHAM, NORFOLK