Sir – I write with reference to the article by Roger Smith on the housing crisis in Oxford (Workforce are being priced out: December 4). While I would agree with Mr Smith’s analysis of the current situation in Oxford, he has not taken into account how the demand for and supply of housing works in a free market economy.

Oxford is a highly desirable place to live — beautiful architecture, good schools and fantastic transport links to London, Heathrow and Gatwick which cannot be matched, geographically speaking, by Cambridge.

The transport links are soon to be improved further by a new rail service directly into Central London. The eye-watering high prices being attained for fairly modest properties in London begs the question — why not cash in and buy more for your money in a place like Oxford with the advantages as outlined?

The lack of affordable housing in Oxford is being exacerbated by precisely this migration. Increasing the housing supply by relaxing the Green Belt restrictions will simply attract more buyers who can pay escalating prices.

My advice to Mr Smith’s colleague with regard to gaining a foothold on the property ladder, would be to buy in an affordable area, let the property and rent in Oxford. It is what everyone else is doing.

Dr Ann Boon, Ardington