HARRIET Harman, the Social Services Minister, has made it a very worrying time for single mothers and the disabled, with the threat of their benefits being cut.

I am disabled and, though working, have a very low income, helped by a disability allowance.

Working is part of the cure, but the injustice and depression caused by slashing the benefit is more likely to mean hospitalisation.

At £800 per week for a bed in hospital, compared with £40 for the allowance, it makes sense for the Government to continue helping.

My brother and his wife, both working, have a 10 months old child. I don't know how they cope.

Single mothers need all the income they receive to bring up their children.

Caring for people is expensive, but worthwhile.

Bringing up children and helping the poor is essential for a civilised society.

Jack Straw and Tony Blair should take note if they want a second term, for they may offend the people who put them in office.

BARRY WALSH, Calgary Avenue, Lammack, Blackburn.

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