The writer of the recent letter accusing me of being image-conscious is right. I want Brighton and Hove to be a place for thriving small businesses such as restaurants and cafes, which rely on the additional summer trade brought in by paying customers using outdoor tables and chairs.

The atmosphere of people enjoying a civilised drink in sunny surroundings watching the world go by is a great attraction. Brighton's enviable reputation as a destination for summer day visits and holidays contributes to our local economy, and yes, that's something I support.

There is a world of difference between this trade and the type of antisocial behaviour that the ban I support is intended to address.

The letter asks if I also support laws to prevent street tables and chairs spilling over pavements and roads and endangering people such as himself passing by. The answer is yes. Laws are already in place do just this.

Sites are assessed before licences are issued and an annual fee is paid by the cafe, restaurant or pub. If any complaints are made, these are investigated to make sure the terms of the license and any other Health and Safety Regulations are being adhered to.

-Coun Geoffrey Theobald OBE, Brighton Kemp Town Conservative Association, Brighton