Adam Trimingham must have taken a deep breath when writing his latest column (The Argus, December 13).

"I am more gung ho about Brighton's prospects than at any time since I first moved here."

Brave words as unemployment increases. Unfortunately and inevitably, the more our circumstances improve, the greater become our requirements and expectations for the future.

The more we acquire, the more we demand "as of right". As Adam points out, we feel poor when we see those around us having more than we have.

The solution seems obvious, albeit historically elusive.

The most contented, united society is one where the gap between rich and poor is minimal and not the magnitude of the nation's wealth.

Thankfully we have a Chancellor of the Exchequer who has made this a top priority. Let us wish him well.

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