Put down your shotguns

Re: "Northern associations face prospect of shotgun weddings" (2 April, page 9). We commend the Housing Corporation's John Carleton for his courage, but we consider this another foolhardy approach. The corporation may not have much time for the Audit Commission but we would ask Carleton to read its report, Group Dynamics, which highlights concerns about the effectiveness of group structures and the loss of independence experienced by partners such as black and minority ethnic associations.

The corporation's radical vision for the future appears to be one in which BME and small mainstream associations are rationalised out of existence. How does this fit in with the diversity agenda? How will it assist John Prescott's agenda to build sustainable communities? For our communities to be developed and sustained, the government and Housing Corporation need to involve BME and small associations in local strategies for neighbourhood renewal and racial equality.

At the Federation of Black Housing Organisations' annual conference in October 2003, Norman Perry, then chief executive, reaffirmed the corporation's commitment to a viable BME housing association sector. He went on to deny rumours that the corporation had an agenda about promoting a preferred size and style of association. He said big wasn't necessarily beautiful, responsive or efficient and the personal touch and small scale could lead to better, more responsive and more sensitive management.

If an association falls into difficulties, the Housing Corporation has a duty to step in but should it go so far as to choose its future "spouse"? But Carleton's comments seem to indicate a motive beyond this.