Case leaks away for privatisation

THE Government recently stated its intentions of more private roads. The success of water privatisation was cited in support of this.

But a 2001 study by the Public Services International Research Unit stated that tariffs increased after privatisation by 46 per cent “in real terms” during the first nine years; and investments were reduced.

The aim of privatisation was to aid massive investment needed in order to prevent restrictions such as hosepipe bans. But what is happening now? Water shortages due to lack of investment and leaking pipes.

No time for TV whingeing

From: Trev Bromby, Sculcoates Lane, Hull.

TIME after time, we get people whingeing for a variety of reasons as to the timing of TV programmes.

I wonder, what is the ratio of whingers compared to the number of video/DVD recorders in Britain (not to forget Sky Anytime and iPlayers).

Any programme can be watched at any time to suit all whingers – children, tired oldies and everyone else.

There used to be an old adage: “Take me away from the fire I’m burning” – descriptive of people too idle to get up and help themselves.

Wrong turn

From: Roger Dobson, Ash Street, Cross Hills, Near Keighley.

HOW dare the fuel tanker drivers even think of going on strike when they already earn £35,000 per annum plus?

If I were their employer they would be very quickly on the dole and to hell with their standard of living. Theirs is not a skilled job and never will be.

From: Douglas Telfer, Kings Road, Harrogate.

It didn’t take long, did it? The stupidity and sheer self-centredness of the average Briton has been starkly revealed by this week’s petrol panic.