THE headlines tell us that there are approximately one million people on six-months months zero-rated work contracts. They may work two or three days then nothing for weeks, but cannot look for work anywhere else.

In the late 17th century and early 18th century, the pitmen in the North East and Scotland had similar contracts with the owners. There are more and more food banks opening for people in need, more people sleeping rough, and still David Cameron and his friends say things are getting better.

Mrs M Robinson, Broadway, York.