HAVE we to believe now that Richard Branston is to front another national organisation?

Claims that he is going to make it easier to win the lottery do not stand up to scrutiny when he proposes to increase the numbers to 53. That must increase the odds from the present 14 million to one.

Then there is the prospect of £1 million if you pick six from seven for an extra £1 -- is this to be a separate fund, subsidised by the six-number main lottery?

The Wednesday and Saturday lotteries should not be run on a roll over. Many people play on Saturday but cannot afford to play on Wednesday.

Why should their contributions go to the smaller number of people who play the midweek draw?

Tony Blair's usurping of funds to provide facilities that should come from general taxation needs addressing. The independent quangos that dispense money for good causes want a sort-out. Stop their hair-brain schemes and get the money to the people quickly and efficiently.

If they cannot, then they should be sacked or paid by results.

What safeguards have been put in place to stop Camelot, or someone buying their network, from starting a separate lottery with larger prizes because they will not have to contribute to good causes?

If this comes about, will Sir Richard finish up just twiddling his thumbs, because people who gamble will always go for the big one?

WALT MEADOWS, Whalley New Road, Blackburn.