I AM utterly confused after reading your story regarding the relationship between high divorce rates and the high rents charged for accommodation in York (November 2).

In many people's experience, it is quite obvious that York's high rent problems are down to greedy landlords, buy-to-let schemes, and the incessant building of new luxury executive apartments, which by definition are not affordable housing.

How anyone could arrive at the conclusion that people falling out of marriage could be responsible is a total mystery to me.

The fact that houses, flats and all types of accommodation are now referred to under the umbrella term "property" belies an attitude where we live in an investment rather than a dwelling.

Surely it is this greedy attitude that has pushed up rents and house prices beyond the reach of so many people?

Jason Rayner,

Wenlock Terrace,

York.

Updated: 10:02 Friday, November 05, 2004