Michael Hildreth lets himself down twice (Letters, March 3). Firstly, what the heck have lower priced houses got to do with taxi fares? Secondly, never assume anything.

I spent many years trying to ensure the safety of taxi drivers in Brighton, particularly at night. In fact, a colleague of mine was badly beaten while assisting a taxi driver in Kemp Town.

So I do have some idea about the running of taxis in Brighton.

However, it doesn't alter my belief that a slow drive along the seafront, inconveniencing other road users, isn't the best way to make a point.

In answer to P. Lynch, I didn't mention the Government subsidies as they do not apply in Madeira.

If you ever visit Madeira, you will find the blue and yellow Mercedes taxis waiting to take you where you wish. One of the reasons they have high mileages is that they are used for sight-seeing trips all over the island, the drivers being extremely knowledgeable about life there.

The taxi fares are only fractionally above that of bus fares and with four passengers, often cheaper than the sight-seeing trips by bus or coach.

-David Rowland, Telscombe Cliffs