UK poverty statistic is truly shocking

We have got used to reading of the shocking goings on in Downing Street day after day – with some degree of schadenfreude, I admit. But it was truly appalling to read that 22% of of the population were living in poverty even before the pandemic (Editorial, 24 January). In one of the richest countries in the world, that is over a fifth – more than one in five. Do those in power have no shame at all?
Florence Challands
London

• I am beginning to lose track of all the parties that took place at Downing Street during lockdown. Perhaps it’s time to produce a handy Guardian wallchart?
Nick Rozanski
London

• After 25 years of haphazard advice and lengthy botched attempts to prune my blackcurrants, I went up to the allotment after reading Alys Fowler’s article (January is the time to prune your fruit trees for a bountiful summer crop, 22 January) and just snipped out the darkest stems – 10 minutes, job done. Thank you, Alys, I love you.
Jill Webster
Frogpool, Cornwall

• John and Judy Watson ask (Letters, 25 January) if they had the most delayed Christmas card this year – posted in Southampton on 23 December, reached Manchester on 15 January. About 225 miles in 23 days. My sister’s card to me was much slower. Posted in Winchester on 20 December, reached London on 21 January. About 70 miles in 32 days.
Frances Holloway
London

• On 14 January I received a first-class item posted on 8 December.
Patrick Parrinder
London

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