So living in council houses is enough to get you defined as living in near poverty (Thousands are "on breadline", The Press, July 17)?

I pay full council tax, don't get my child care costs subsidised, nor do I get working and child tax credit.

I don't get reduced fuel and water rates nor do I get very cheap rent. When interest rates go up, so does my mortgage.

Poverty should be defined on disposable income after tax, bills and housing costs - that would be an eye-opener for the Government.

Sam Hunt, St Gregory's Mews, York.