Never enough

Joyce Mcmillan argues that we should return to 1970s levels of taxation in order to solve the poverty problem (Perspective, 7 December). Allow me to remind her that when we paid 33 per cent income tax there was never enough money for public services, which in those days were far less extensive than the vast provision we have today.

Anyway, we do pay just as much tax as other countries, if you add in NI, VAT etc. And we get everything for free, they don’t. Governments have a responsibilityforencouraging economic growth, not stifling it by raising taxes. A healthy economy is the only way to solve the poverty problem.

BRIAN CARSON

Belmont Gardens, Edinburgh

I have not inspected the structure so cannot say if this specific issue relates to the current problem but it will certainly arise in future.

On the positive side, we seem on the brink of a transfer of assets to the community, assuming an appropriate maintenance dowry, returning control to the folk who live in the area. I have seen many examples of local empowerment

and community confidence through land ownership and wish the Aviemore and Glenmore Community Trust well for the future.

JOHN C HUTCHISON

Badabrie Fort William, Invernessshire