Latching systems for latching movable panels

A latching system for latching a movable panel such as an automotive movable panel of an automobile, the system comprising:

• a striker movable relative to a first and a second catches, the first and second catches are configured to limit movement of the striker relative thereto;
• a motor configured to drive both of the catches to at least a position in which movement of the striker is restricted by the catches,
• an actuation member comprising a second catch cam which is adapted to engage a cam follower of the second catch to move the second catch to a latch position thereof;
• a controller configured to cause movement of the second catch to a latch position arranged to limit movement of the striker, where the controller is further configured to process a signal based upon an automotive speed and to cause movement of the second catch to the latch position in response to the signal when the signal indicates the automotive speed is above a predetermined threshold;
• a bias or spring configured to move the second catch to a rest position that is out of the way of movement of the striker;
• wherein the second catch cam and cam follower of the second catch are provided with cooperating surfaces which face one another, a plane through and normal to said cooperating surfaces passing through or substantially through a centre of rotation of the actuation member when the second catch is locked in the latch position by the engagement of the second catch cam and cam follower;
• and
• wherein the cooperating surfaces are circular arc portions with their centres at the centre of rotation of the actuation member.