Readers' letters - July 30

The concerns from the cross-party group of MPs regarding smart meters not being much value for the consumer comes as no surprise to me whatsoever.However, what really annoys me is that this Government, time and time again, embraces certain types of technology with total enthusiasm and without a thought as to the realities of the matter, and often without a care or thought that it will be the good old taxpayer that foots the bill for their mistakes.What we need in the Cabinet are a few more sceptics who will argue the negative impacts of so-called initiatives. Frankly, the only ones to benefit from smart meters are the manufacturers of the meters and the energy companies who save money by not having to employ meter readers.The benefit to the consumers in reality is zero. Arguably taking your own meter readings and doing it online makes you aware of the usage, whereas not having to do so lulls people into false security – until, that is, they get the bill. The other issue is that most people are now energy-conscious anyway thanks to the extortionate costs inflicted upon us, and if you need to boil a kettle or take a shower, then you need to boil a kettle and take your shower. Sadly, it is the consumer once again footing the bill.Karl SheridanAddress supplied