RE: 'Council tenants misled claim' (LET, November 9).

I would like to make it clear to Hyndburn council tenants that housing transfer is still the best way to unlock the money that is needed to improve homes.

Comments made in a recent article implied that even if transfer does not go ahead, the council would still get the money needed to bring homes up to a decent standard.

This is simply not the case. If housing transfer does not go ahead, there will be no extra government money given to the council from the government to invest in their homes.

The government wrote to all councils on October 29, 2004 to explain there will be no review or change on current policy.

This means housing transfer remains the best available way for Hyndburn tenants' homes to get the millions of pounds worth of investment that they need. If tenants vote against transfer, the council will do its best to improve homes but would not have the same amount of money. This means many homes would go without much needed improvements.

Hyndburn Borough Council spent a lot of time talking to tenants and staff about the future of homes before deciding to consult fully on housing transfer.

I would urge all our tenants to find out all the facts about transfer so they can make an informed decision when they are asked to vote.

If any tenants are unsure about the facts on this issue, please call our freephone helpline on 0800 169 8359. There is also an independent tenants adviser -- Indigo -- who can give help and advice free on 0800 146 702.

KEN BURY, Director, Hyndburn Homes.