MADAM - That over one third of children in Dudley Borough live in poverty should come as no surprise, when over 80 million pounds has been cut from the Councils budget.

This was the consequence of the Conservation's austerity program to reduce, a government deficit through spending cuts and welfare reforms. This has undermined economic and material support to those in need of help to take them above the level of poverty. The cynic is right, the government has shown little sincerity and a lack of morality towards the poor.

To those who blame Dudley Council for our present predicament of cuts in public services, should look towards the Government and point a finger of blame. It is time to end austerity, so local authority's, such as Dudley, can have increased funding to eradicate poverty and underfunded social services.

Edward Davies

Stourbridge