One wonders at the seeming difficulties experienced by local councils and the Scottish Government in preventing fraud and protecting the rights of disabled drivers ("Plan to target parking fraud", The Herald, January 23).

It would seem the fraud issue is being addressed through Dennis Robertson's proposed Bill, and it is hoped Holyrood takes his proposal on board.

While the cancellation of the 4500 blue badges still registered to those who are deceased, preventing them from being used fraudulently, will release parking spaces, what about taking action against able-bodied drivers who use disabled spaces?

When challenged about their selfish actions, these drivers always seem to have the same aggressive threatening attitude. which although they do not appreciate it.

This is the problem that needs to be addressed once the fraud situation has been resolved.

Disabled drivers are not second-class citizens, but the Government has not provided the protection needed for what really is a minority group.

I have spent a week visiting a family member at Monklands Hospital. Every day many of the spaces marked for disabled badge holders were occupied by vehicles driven by able-bodied drivers. Not being a shrinking violet, I had no problem addressing these drivers when given the opportunity. Everyone challenged displayed the same aggressive attitude, many with expletives. In discussion with an older wheelchair-dependent driver, who was also denied a parking space, I was saddened by his comment when he said: "Ah son, I don't complain any more, nobody bothers."

In defence of Monklands Hospital, many vehicles were plastered with stickers telling drivers not to park in these spaces, which as the attendant said: "Is all we can do."

Is there any Government interest in addressing this problem?

James Paterson,

16 Orchill Drive,

Plains,

Airdrie.