If it is objected that the UK cannot afford to run East Finchley Library and must cut public spending for the greater good, we need look no further than right-wing economists like Roger Bootle for the objections reputation.

Bootle points out in his latest book, The Trouble with Europe, that national economies are not the same as household ones. Therefore, cutting public spending means cutting not the income of the public sector but someone else’s income in the private sector, doubly reducing monetary growth and losing a good priceless service. So it is a fallacy that he asserts austerity, improves public finances, and increases competitiveness.

A strong, healthy and forward-looking state nurtures all its public services, especially its children and libraries. A weak, insecure and backward state closes them.

Andrew Wills

Hertford Road, East Finchley