Letter: I beg to differ

Sir: Although I wouldn't condone the racist remarks about beggars allegedly made by a driver on the Tube (letter, 30 November), I think London Underground is right to try to discourage people from giving them money.

The women who regularly work the Victoria and Piccadilly Lines are professional beggars with few qualms about hassling the vulnerable or disabled. One should be able to travel on public transport without being intimidated by such people. Peter Forster is naive if he thinks he is being charitable by giving them his cash.

If he really wants to help the dispossessed, he should send his money to Amnesty International or some similar organisation.

MONICA HALL

London N19