Sir - I was amazed to learn that East Devon District Council intended to embed micro chips in its bedding plants to deter thieves.

My first reaction was to check my calendar to make sure that it was not April 1.

There was no mention of the value of plants lost from public gardens or of the cost to council tax payers of this ludicrous scheme.

I am also at a loss as to how missing plants could be traced. Scanners of similar micro-chips in pets must be held very close to the pet but, unless the council or the police have good information as to the whereabouts of stolen plants, how can the chips be traced?

Is there a very sensitive scanner that can be used from a helicopter?

Dermot Staivaker

East Hill

Ottery St Mary