SIR - When I read that Britons are facing the possibility of a day in court for smoking in public places I just could not believe it.

A "zero tolerance" approach to a seemingly minor misdemeanour when there are countless murderers, rapists, muggers and burglars in our midst does not make sense.

Moreso, when the police tell us that at present they can't get to some serious crimes because of a shortage of resources.

But victims can expect to wait even longer if our over-stretched police are busy taking details from a thoughtless smoker.

Of course laws must be obeyed, but catching real criminals should take priority over any other matter.

David Rhodes, Croscombe Walk, Bradford