JULIA UNWIN, chief executive of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, asked for her opinion of the Chancellor’s autumn statement, stated 13 million people – a staggering figure in itself – are living in poverty in England today.

Poverty is a very emotive subject, particularly at this time of year, so could the foundation please advise the public as to their definition of same appropriate to the 21st century?

It could prove to be a major surprise or insult to many hard-working families.

Peter Rickaby, West Park, Selby.