What have you done today with your Austin Seven

[Paul N-M]

Paul NM.. can't answer that question as the speedo didn't work....the missus says it felt like some 50 kp/h in 2nd
and what's wrong with the ram pipe with mesh??? do you mean I should run it without a ram pipe of without mesh?
I've run similar ram pipes on my TR2 with even finer mesh and that one outran my friend's TR4 (admitted.. It had 86 mm Mahle pistons and a fast road  camshaft)

Yes and what did the speed drop to by the time you found 3rd? That could be the issue with your sluggish 3rd gear pick up.
Re the ram pipe. Nothing wrong with a ram pipe but any benefit will be severely comprimised by the mesh restricting and also disturbing the air flow.
Best to fit a pipe of good proven design with no filter, which will let in dust etc, or put a filter sock over it if you have concerns about FOD. The quickest way to set up the carb properly on a rolling road. 
Paul