AS an in-vehicle communications engineer, I was disappointed to read Malcolm Stainforth's letter (Fines not the answer to mobile madness, January 25) and wish to address his concerns with regards to the use of a mobile phone while driving.

This law was originally passed in December 2003 but, as we all see, it is flaunted by many; hence the Government is imposing greater fines and points to improve safety on our roads.

You do not have to have a hands-free car kit installed to comply with the law, but must not use your phone while driving if you don't.

The problem with this law is that members of the public do not understand it and show little regard for it.

As a professional, I assume Mr Stainforth must have had a very bad experience with regards to a hands-free installation in order to brand this business as a "bodge up".

For the majority of vehicles there are mounting brackets available which avoid any vehicle damage, audio integration, which allows factory-fitted car speakers to be used, and discreet antennae that can be disguised as tax disk holders etc.

There are guidelines with regards to this type of work which ensure that a "bodge up" does not occur, but I do appreciate that for every good tradesman there is at least one bad.

Most vehicle manufacturers offer to provide hands-free car kits on new vehicles but, of course, these are an extra and, in most cases, cost more than a retrofit solution that can be tailored to meet your exact requirements.

The simple resolution to this problem, as it has been branded by Mr Stainforth, is that of either compliance or disregard to the law.

Stephen Kealey, Managing director, Pace Technology UK Ltd, St James Court, Rawcliffe, Goole.