Lewes has its own currency and an exceptional number of independent businesses, but would it be a step to far to take up David Cameron's idea of 'Big Society' whereby groups would run post offices, libraries, transport services and shape housing projects?

The 'Big Society'? People give their time and resources because they want to, not because they are expected to. The 'Big Society' can only bring greater divides between rich and poor.

I don’t understand why people have a problem with the ‘big society’? Is it ‘cos it’s a Tory idea? Isn’t that what we do in Lewes anyway? We set up bonfire societies, open schools, create our own currency, develop visions for upcoming developments, lobby other residents for opinion and consensus. Surely less red tape, more local control and a willingness and vision by the people for the benefit of the people is the way to go?

People with lower incomes generally also have less free time, or both people in a couple may have to work to support themselves. The big society means these people will have to give up local services or reduce their income...its hardly a fair way to do things. Lewes is very affluent and i think it would be interesting to monitor health and happiness once this thing has been launched.