I REFER TO Susan Smith’s letter (Oxford Mail, June 14), about large families and benefits.

I totally agree with her but don’t blame the families. It’s all the fault of our stupid welfare state.

Why work when the system pays you more to sit at home or in the pub and get paid – and often paying more than full-time employment?

We pay people like immigrants and unemployed teenagers who have never contributed to the state.

My income tax went up £1,000 a year to cover an increase to my pension – which Gordon Brown cancelled. Yet, although the rise was cancelled the tax was not reduced.

I am not rich but I do have self-respect.

R TUCKER, Kingsway Drive, Kidlington