Private enterprise is responsible for great progress, as are our universities, but when things get beyond them we all need Government support.

The young need it to help with a home of their own to progress in life; the lowest-paid and disabled for the basic human need of shelter. It is in the best interests of the nation that houses are there, in good order and adequate, for these basic rights. Otherwise, society suffers more disunity, crime and violence.

It applies equally with finance, health care and housing. Right now it is clear that when well-heeled bankers mess things up, millions of honest, hard working families lose their homes and the income for food and heating. The Government is putting its weight behind the banking shortfalls, but not behind public housing, which has been left at a low level since Maggie Thatcher sold it off.

Surely, when caravan and chalet parks have sprung up all over the country for holidaymakers and tourists, the same for our homeless, with transport services to nearest cities, could be provided by Government with homes and dignity for those let down by the private system. Prefabs for rent, too.

George Appleby, Clifton Without, York.