I agree with Nick Vince in most of his observations on your reports of police raids on establishments that may be offering sexual services (Letters, January 19).

I can see no objection whatsoever to consensual activities between adults behind closed doors.

There are serious problems with soliciting and kerb crawling in public places which seems both undignified and unsafe.

The murders of street prostitutes in Suffolk recently are a terrible warning.

The named establishment in Southend, A127 Babes, seems to have been somewhat indiscreet in its marketing and an invitation to objectors.

I suspect that their complaints are rather magnified. In such experience as I have of these things it is the English way to seek the greatest possible anonymity and privacy.

I am not sure that it is possible to regulate the provision of sexual or related services, but it is necessary to ensure the welfare and security of the women working in the industry, and also to protect the interests of paying customers visiting these premises.

Apart from that there is no moral element involved and there should not normally be any practical issues.

Denis Garne - Labour councillor
Kursaal ward
Central Avenue
Southend