I read in the national press that bait advertising - where shoppers are enticed by an advert for an item that turns out to be unavailable - will be outlawed.

I particularly enjoy Waitrose roasted coffee ice cream which is sold only in 500ml tubs. It was on a BOGOF offer last month but turned out to be really unavailable because when I inquired about the next delivery I was told by a member of staff at the Chandler's Ford Waitrose that delivery had been suspended.

He volunteered that this was not an isolated incidence and happened rather too frequently with other special offers.

It is very disappointing that a company like Waitrose is unable to make certain that their special offers remain available throughout the special offer period.

RICHARD STROTHER, Southampton.