OPPOSE INCREASE: The NHS, schools, police, prisons and armed forces are all short of money and yet Tony Blair has agreed to increase Britain's payment to the European Union to £115m per week. This money would get the NHS out of debt in a few weeks. We taxpayers have to find this additional money and yet the Government and MPs of all parties conspire not to discuss European issues publically. Perhaps they are too embarrassed. However, the increased payment still has to be approved by Parliament. The many who oppose this payment should write to their MPs asking them to vote against the increase. MPs may be encouraged to oppose, particularly if they are in marginal seats.

J MITCHELL

Bromley

UNFAIR EXPENSES: I was astonished to read Beckenham MP Jacqui Lait was paid £6,716 in travel expenses. This included travel between her Beckenham home and her second home in Rye, Sussex. She is reported to have claimed 20,000 miles of travel, equivalent of 10 journeys per day between Beckenham and Westminster when Parliament sits. While it is reasonable for MPs to be paid expenses incurred on official business, her second home is clearly a private matter. Taxpayers should not be required to pay for these expenses. How many News Shopper readers would have travel to holiday houses paid for by their employers? It is no wonder voters are increasingly disillusioned.

RAY CORBETT

Penge

URBAN VILLAGE: Having enjoyed living in Beckenham for more than 30 years, I am pleased to read £190,000 is to be spent on Beckenham Green (Funding Approval For Park Makeover, News Shopper, February 14). Councillor Michael Tickner says Beckenham has a reputation as an urban village. But how long can this continue? Village signs and co-ordinated lampposts cannot withstand the onslaught of modern times, such as fast food outlets, with ensuing litter and kerbside parking. We already have around 20 restaurants, 10 pubs or bars and many small cafes.

MRS G CRANE

Beckenham

KIND HELPERS: I had a fall in Cotmandene car park, landing on my nose. Within seconds I had immediate comfort and help from a man called Kevin and an unknown lady. One can meet angels unaware, which I have. Saying thank you seems inadequate, but I really am truly grateful. My sincere thanks to you both.

MRS C BLACKMORE

Orpington