Councillor Turton's letter on affordable homes (Letters, April 27) makes some valid points.

However, as is usual in these matters, he manages to put forward a number of agendas not immediately apparent to the unwary.

I cite, for example, the term "key worker". I have great difficulty in accepting such an arbitrary tagging of public service workers whose incomes are a lot more than some in the private sector, for example, hotel workers.

Of course I can see, from the point of view of Brighton Marina's PR, how attractive teachers, firemen, refuse operatives and nurses are. All it means is suspending the good old market forces principle in favour of a little social engineering.

And yes, if I were a retired or resting thespian or high-flying executive with a boat I would be a lot happier knowing I was in daily communion with those trained to provide the services which prevent us all from descending into civic chaos.

But please remember those who are trying to make something of themselves without being a burden on the public purse and do not belong to any trade or professional organisation.

  • Ralph Taylor, Southall Avenue, Moulsecoomb