I HAVE been disabled for more than 20 years, but worked until February, 1999, when I had to retire through ill health and go on my company pension and social security benefits.

I've had to fight for my benefits, but now I've been told that if I wish to continue my computer studies I'll have to pay in full for the course because from July 1, Incapacity Benefit no longer comes under exemption.

But if you are on Income Support, Disability Working Allowance, Jobseeker's Allowance or another benefit, you will be exempt.

I started my half-day courses on computers three years ago and was on Incapacity Benefit. Now, without any notice, the Government is mean-testing Incapacity Benefit and has decided that we must pay for our courses, yet those on the other benefits I've mentioned need not pay.

I think that is discrimination against most people as well as the disabled. There must be hundreds and thousands affected.

A D GORDON (Mr), Brighton Terrace, Darwen.