LIKE most people, never mind most pensioners, I would like a bigger income, but feel the Government policy of targeting money at those most in need is fair. Recent new benefits have helped lower-income pensioners.

Many people who bought their homes a few years ago have quite a bit of equity, and it is unreasonable for those with savings and income from occupational pensions to expect automatic handouts while there are other priorities such as student grants and health service improvements vying for taxpayers' money.

Why does Don Parlabean moan on about means testing? (October 10). In the 1940s our parents' generation felt humiliated by the system then existing, as they were expected to go cap-in-hand to relations before being considered for "poor relief".

The system today is very different, and no one need feel ashamed of accepting benefits which ensure that available money goes to those whose income falls below certain levels, for whatever reason.

R G Thornton,

Knapton Lane,

Acomb, York.

Updated: 10:39 Wednesday, November 12, 2003