It seems there is a great deal of misconception and misinformation that has found its way onto the letters pages of The Argus on the subject of face-to-face fundraisers in recent days (Letters, April 24).

Despite what she says, it has in fact been some considerable time since Soozie Campbell and her coalition of business representatives last met with the Public Fundraising Regulatory Association (PRFA). She last met us in December 2004, which may be why she fails to recall our proper title. In the intervening time I have taken over as chief executive and continued to make overtures to Brighton and Hove City Council (BHCC) to work with us and our membership to ensure that face-to-face fundraising is appropriately regulated.

They steadfastly refuse to do so.

In the meantime the PFRA has voluntarily reduced fundraising activity by more than half - slashing income for vital charities and good causes - in response to concerns raised by residents and businesses of Brighton, although I have yet to see any proof that these concerns are actually founded.

The demand of the business forum for a local code of practice is both unreasonable and unnecessary.

There is already a national code in place which our members observe and is monitored by both the PFRA and the Fundraising Standards Board. This code has more than satisfied the authorities and residents of more than 60 district councils, with whom we have regulatory partnerships and which are increasing in number by the day.

For BHCC to have its own code would go against the consistency and fairness with which the Charities Act 2006 must be applied in regulating public collections and would greatly increase costs for charities, diminishing the value of the very many donations which continue to be given willingly by local residents and visitors.

For Brighton and Hove to have such unique problems that they cannot be dealt with effectively by a code which is functioning well throughout the whole of the rest of the UK also beggars belief. Indeed, Brighton and Hove chief executive's office has confirmed to me in writing that the City Council "has no policy or official position on face to face fundraising", which I find remarkable if indeed it is the problem Soozie and others continue to assert it is.

  • Mick Aldridge, chief executive, PFRA, Lavington Street, London