In view of falling house prices, I am surprised that housing associations and councils have not bought some of these dwellings for those on the housing list.

West Oxfordshire District Council had a golden opportunity last year to take over two derelict houses in Long Hanborough under the empty houses legislation 2004.

It could have used these houses for people on the waiting list, helping to alleviate a problem.

Alas, all the council did was bluster.

What can we do about it?

Many councils are there to cause problems, not solve them.

GLYN LIMMER Roosevelt Road Long Hanborough