Ian Slater really must get out more - in Europe (Letters, August 23).

In terms of quality of life, social welfare for young and old, health services, transport, the environment and even the much-feared establishment of the euro and the move towards uniform interest rates, those countries which embrace the EU have much to offer their citizens.

Mr Slater may scoff at the ideal of European unity as opposed to nationalism but I welcome it as the best means of securing peace and prosperity for all.

As for mortgage rates, it is exactly that kind of "crooked cucumber" story which the UK Independence Party and others rely on to scare people witless.

Many people would welcome a move away from the tyranny of massive mortgages to the greater availability of reasonably priced and regulated rented property. This would allow flexibility of the labour market and more disposable income.

Go on, Mr Slater, dream a little.

-Roger Hudson, Eastbourne