While my Association members do not run bed and breakfast properties, they do let substantial numbers of properties in the local area.

Many of our landlords, contrary to what Anne Williams said (November 15) do accept tenants in receipt of housing benefit but few will accept tenants who cannot pay a deposit and rent in advancer.

What Anne Williams does not appear to understand is that this government, through the housing benefit system, does not pay full market rents, but average rents.

It can keep landlords waiting many weeks before a first payment is made and if the tenant cannot provide good evidence to the local authority of his identity then no payment at all will be made.

It should be the responsibility of housing associations, who are provided with government funds, to provide accommodation to vulnerable homeless people. Some do - most do not.

The message to potential tenants in this town is therefore: Don't expect to be able to occupy decent accommodation if you cannot provide references, proof of identity, a good deposit and rent in advance.

A right to a reasonable home carries responsibilities

-Mike Stimpson, chairman, Southern Private Landlords Association, Brighton