The Covered Market is the jewel in the crown of the Oxford shopping facilities. It is uniquely British.

I love shopping in this magical setting in the heart of Oxford which is easily accessible by bike.

The Market is well frequented by tourists who come from every corner of the globe to our glorious city.

I can’t believe that the present Labour administration at a time of universal recession is demanding excessive and unrealistic rent increases.

This will destroy the quality and character of the independent retailer in the Market. It is also quoted by councillor Colin Cook that the market needs to sell items which are in demand, precisely what they are doing! We are lucky enough to have these independent outlets including a pet shop, greengrocers, butchers, flowers, cheese, shoes, clothes and a lovely Helen and Douglas House charity shop. How can they survive if the market was to close?

Could this be a further excuse for the Labour Party to sell off the family silver as they have previously done?

Jo Bartlett, William Street, New Marston