SIR - Although I agree with the letters of Andrew Brown published in the Worcester News, I can't help but wonder how much another factor effects the amount of housing stock.

What is the effect of asylum seekers and illegal immigrants on available social housing? The think-tank Civitas said recently that "political correctness was stifling free speech and open debate". What this country needs is a long-term honest, realistic plan to deal with homelessness. This issue should not be about providing opportunities for local politicians and MPs to indulge in Punch and Judy politics.

M SWIERS,

Worcester.