MRS HARDING says I assume that everyone on benefits is struggling. Well no, even I am not so naive. But I don't write letters about these people, because, well, they're doing all right, so to speak.

However, now that Mrs Harding has brought this group into the picture, I have to say, that I don't see why anyone, thrifty enough to have saved money while in work, should have to use that money when they become too ill to work. These people paid into a NI scheme, that provides them with a weekly payment, should this kind of thing happen.

People must be encouraged to save for their future. Surely, if they do so, they should not lose out, should they have the misfortune to become ill or disabled.

The same goes for pensioners. Why should they have to use money, saved by thrift, and in many cases, have to sell their homes, to provide money for accommodation in old folk's homes, when they are too old or infirm to cope alone?

Would you suggest that when the better-off benefits claimants have used up all their savings, that they too should sell their homes to make ends meet? Maybe you feel this would put them on the same footing as those who didn't have a house to sell?

But here's a first. I do tend to agree with Mrs Harding, (pause while she gets up off the floor), that when people are getting good pensions from work, and can afford to live without dipping into their savings, then, maybe, they should not get benefits.

We should also stop Child Allowance to those on above average earnings.

But maybe you are right Mrs Harding. Maybe we should just beg to differ. However, I would like to thank you for the mental stimulation, and, in all sincerity, wish you, and all the readers of this page, a very Happy New Year.

Brian Derbyshire

Ribchester Grove

Bolton

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.