THE report in The Press of November 25, from the Office of National Statistics and supported by the well-respected Joseph Rowntree Foundation, proves that York is placed at the bottom of the list in the country when it comes to workers seeing a reduction in their wages compared to the cost of living and inflation.

Almost ten per cent of York citizens have seen around a ten per cent reduction of their income in the past twelve months.

With the exception of a few notable employers who have signed up to the living wage (who should be applauded), your report indicates the majority of employers are paying lip-service to the words they use concerning the welfare and well-being of their workforce.

If employers believed in their words, they would sign up to the living wage and at one fell swoop assist in attempting to remove their workers from poverty and relieve local councils and the Government from having to pay out tax credits on low wages.

The only way for employers and politicians to alleviate poverty is to have a comprehensive and united response to assist low-paid workers and to insist that employers pay the living wage.

Howard Perry, St James Place, Dringhouses, York.