THE very large rise in youth unemployment concerns trade unions, but we cannot go on strike about it.

Personally, I would like to be able to help people working for a private company to get a decent pension.

But the law does not allow trade unions to go on strike for anything other than our pay and conditions.

It is not that union members are selfish, we certainly want to fight for a better society.

Accepting the Government attacks on our pay and pensions would not help anyone except the bankers, that is where the increase in contributions would go.

Rich people saw their income rise by 50 per cent last year, while unemployment went up and our pay was frozen. They control Government, do not allow them to control your mind, do not believe their lies.

ABELARDO CLARIANA-PIGA, Millbrook, Southampton.