READING the articles in the BEN on the "blame culture" reminded me of something I recently read on the same issue.

According to the law -- or an interpretation of it -- responsible people who clear away snow and ice from the pavements outside their homes are putting themselves at risk. Because, by doing so, they are taking on the responsibility of keeping that part of the pavement clear, and with that responsibility comes liability. Therefore, should someone slip, they could sue you for negligence.

Have we gone completely batty? It would seem that a section of the legal profession are working their socks off trying to find ways of making an ass of the law in order to make a fast buck for themselves and for individuals they represent.

Little wonder council tax soars as councils are hounded, or that insurance premiums rocket as more and more claims are made.

Some may say that we need these people to keep negligent parties on their toes, and they have a point. But should the law make people afraid to take on their responsibilities, for fear they become liabilities? This is tantamount to telling us to sit back and do nowt, just to be on the safe side. Now that is pathetic!

Genuine claimants need legal help, but do we really need people in the street, on the phone and on TV, begging us to let them sue someone -- anyone -- on our behalf?

This is just another nasty import from the USA. When will we ever learn?

Brian Derbyshire

Ribchester Grove

Bolton