2 MARCH 1991, Page 23

Sir: I think Jeremy Putley's account of his tribulations at

the hands of ageists is very misleading. I too am a professional over 45, and I have been unemployed since Christmas. Yet I haven't found it so tough in the job market. I had three interviews this week and have two next week, and feel sure I shall be working again before Easter.

About half-way through Mr Putley's piece I knew what was coming — the great old British whine: why doesn't the Govern- ment do something? One can excuse this from teenagers; but at his age Mr Putley ought to have learned that when govern- ment does something about anything, it is sure to make things ten times worse.

John Derbyshire

50 Whiteadder Way, Clippers Quay, London E14