Further to the letter from a Queens Park resident regarding flat fares on buses, I was somewhat disappointed at Roger French's avoidance of answering the question (Opinion Extra, April 26).

I live in Hove and now find it cheaper for my husband and I to drive into Brighton and pay £1.80 for the car park than to use the £1 flat fare (£1.80 compared to £4.00 - I am quite sure the petrol does not equate to £2.20).

While I do not agree in principle with using the car for short journeys, I also do not understand why local residents are penalised.

Comments from Mr French, managing director of Brighton and Hove Bus and Coach Company, would be gratefully received.

-L English, First Avenue, Hove