A family like mine, who had had a fire more than 20 years ago, would praise fire crews for their attendance and for the professional manner in which they stayed until the house was considered safe.

It beggars belief that some people appear to complain that the Fire Brigades' Union is asking for too much.

People should recall September 11.

New York firefighters rushed unthinking into the disaster that was unthinkable - our crews would do the same!

Let the Government fund this claim.

Where have the priorities gone in our country? We are the fourth richest and we are on a collision course for war with Iraq. A shortage of funds? I don't think so.

MICHAEL EVERETT

Upper Road

Kennington

Oxford