AN interesting account of how those on benefits should be treated, but on the basis that there are not enough jobs, how does Kev Walsh see those unable to get a job making enough money to live on, bearing n mind that living without visible means of support is a crime?

Of course there are the usual, crime, drug selling and prostitution, all of which are equally likely to end up with a prison sentence. Which does Kev Walsh think is the cheaper, prison or benefits, particularly as those who have been in prison for five year will not have paid stamp and therefore not be entitled to benefits under his scheme.

I remember a similar argument against teenage single parents, so I reminded them of all the methods tried to cope with this, from abortion, infanticide, selling the children to Australia (£10 a time) giving them to 'worthy' parents, and oddly enough those complaining refused to choose any of the options or offer alternative. The idea of compulsory chastity belts - whether chemical or physical for all unmarried girls was not raised.

So back to Kev Walsh. Always be aware of those offering poorly thought through panaceas to solve problems who cannot think through the implications of what they are saying. Get a job, is a great soundbite, but pretty stupid when there are no jobs to get. I know we are short of doctors, and apart from my dislike of needles and dealing with blood, I would love to be one, but I am discriminated against merely because I have no medical training, qualifications or experience.

Kev Walsh, get real, enter the real world and figure out the problems you create in solving the problems you want to address

Tim Harris

Bolton