Sir – I am grateful for Henry Brougham’s shrewd analysis of the housing issues (Letters, March 29). May I add a brief thought which many politicians seem to ignore?
Certain aspects of modern life (which we could describe as vital needs) are perhaps best understood as non-cost-effective and outside market provision. For instance, it’s good that we don’t have turnstiles in every public park, charging a pound or two to walk under the trees. And the same goes for children’s playgrounds and, ideally, public libraries. Similarly, it’s a good principle that urgent prescriptions to the sick should not be charged at full commercial cost.
Today, when some live in homes priced at £7m, while others have barely a hovel to call their own, we should surely acknowledge that a roof over the head is a vital social entitlement (for individuals, couples, children — in fact for every citizen in a civilised society).
The market has clearly failed abysmally in this sector and should no longer be seen as a chief or sole provider of homes.
The Oxford city councillors are surely wise to see this as clearly as they do and we should all support them.
Ian Flintoff, Oxford
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