THE world’s leading climate scientist, James Hansen, predicts that we may see sea-level rises of up to five metres this century. If he is correct, Grimsby, Hull and parts of Selby will be lost to the sea.

He predicts most of the rise to be in the last few decades of this century, so we have time to discuss where the refugees from these places might be housed. Until we can be more certain, perhaps we should think in terms of where temporary homes might be placed so that services can be planned.

I would suggest that our out-of-town shopping centres would be good places for these settlements.

Geoff Beacon, Belle Vue Street, York.