Short & sweet

On living allowance

Fifty years ago, when I was teaching in England, there was a London allowance to assist teachers with the extra expense of living there. The suggestion that there be a similar “Auckland Allowance” to help schools retain staff has a well-established precedent. Jeanette Grant, Mt Eden.

On child care

I decided I would raise my children at home to complete the bonding process. This resulted in frayed tempers and a messy house. We weren't well off, so couldn't afford any relief. I now think some time in a child care centre would have been a good idea.

Ailsa Martin-Buss, Glen Innes.

On mobile fines

I am astounded the Government has not increased the $80 fine for using a handheld mobile now more road deaths are caused by their use than by speeding. It should be lifted to the $500 fine Phil Twyford paid for using his mobile in a plane on the tarmac. Wayne Dickey, Titirangi.

On free speech

Free speech. What's wrong with soap boxes? Can take them anywhere and the speakers do not need to get paid. As long as they don't hold up the traffic. D. Hoekstra, Papakura.

On Don Brash

Brilliant own goal from Massey Vice Chancellor Jan Thomas who has given Don Brash free publicity that would have otherwise cost him a fortune. Alan Milton, Cambridge.

On Rachael Stewart

Thank you Rachael Stewart for your opinion piece, “Animals might want a word”. Pure gold. Lois Mary Taylor, Taupo¯ .