There's a lot of money in the news at the moment, and, whether it's gambling footballers or London congestion charges, it seems that some very basic principles are being missed.

All things are relative, money especially so, and it seems stunningly obvious that what you spend can only make sense in relation to what you have.

In the case of footballer Michael Owen, for example, if he really has blown tens of thousands on gambling, it really is his choice. In terms of what he earns, it's not much different from you or me spending £1 on a lottery ticket. It may well be God's way of telling him that he's making too much money, but that's an argument for another day.

Proposed congestion charges for London are different, because they may well spread to our area, even beyond the limited situation in Durham City.

The odd thing about the £5 charge for the capital is that the authorities don't seem to have noticed that a fiver a trip means very different things to different people.

Because of the hours they work, many people have to drive into London, especially in view of the limitations on public transport at unsocial hours. For a merchant banker, no doubt, every fiver is paid by the firm anyway, and, even if not, is a minor blip on a six figure income. For people doing work at less fancy salaries, though, the congestion charge becomes a real drain on already taxed income.

If you have the luxury of a car, translate this to the North East, and think what it would mean to you if every trip in, or out, of your town centre cost a fiver.

This kind of thinking only makes sense if there are alternatives in place.

What government seems incapable of grasping is the simple fact that many car owners drive as a matter of necessity not choice. I would cheerfully leave the car at home on many occasions if I could be sure that there was reliable and convenient public transport.

Until the carrots are provided, unfair sticks like a blanket congestion charge will simply cause anger and resentment.

Talking of people who deserve a better deal, I look forward to attending the AGM of the Cleveland Pensioners' Convention Forum this Thursday (23rd) at 11 am.

It's being held at the United Reform Church Hall in Redcar and promises, as usual, some lively debate. I look forward to seeing you there if you're going along.

Published: 22/01/2003