RE the pensions debate. It seems to me that the present pensions situation has been brought about by the complete disregard, by successive governments, of the very people who in the past have tried to make provision for their old age.

They have seen various sections of society retiring at the age of 60 and less and still receive the same basic state pension at 65, despite having contributed for five or even six years less.

They have seen people receive hand-outs via council tax, dental fees, spectacles and a myriad of other state benefits all amounting to quite considerable sums all because they have spent every penny as they earned it and not given any consideration to their old age.

Is it any wonder that the current attitude prevails?

Whereas, on the other hand, anyone who has tried to help themselves is penalised left, right and centre.

Furthermore the government, of whatever persuasion, has the audacity to tax the very pension that was supposed to help you through your latter years.

It's no wonder that Britain is so divided. I shudder to think what society will be like over the next 20 years.

People have seen these events occur and it has led to an attitude of "Why bother?" Politicians should hang their heads in shame.

Finally I appeal to all politicians both local and national to apply "common sense" in their thinking for all the citizens of this great nation of ours.

B DAGGER (Mr), Marlton Road, Blackburn.