PUBLIC backing for speed cameras has slipped, says the AA. New research by the association shows that public support for cameras generally remains high.

But the AA is concerned that government and police forces are not doing enough to convince drivers that cameras are about reducing casualties, not raising money.

The research, which surveyed the attitudes of more than 500 drivers to speed cameras, showed that 41 per cent said they found them "very acceptable" - down from 53 per cent in 1999. The number of drivers who think the police keep all the fine money has more than doubled, from 20 per cent to 41 per cent. In fact, the majority of forces do not keep any money and those that do only cover their costs. Overall, 83 per cent of drivers now find camera use either "acceptable" or "very acceptable", down from 87 per cent.