SIR – Mark Tate (Letters, December 6) should read the actual words in a letter before adversely criticising the writer. I never said private companies took into account their customers’ finances before charging them – I was pointing out that they had not been better served by those we were purported to own.

And Christopher Hindle (Letters, December 7), showed that during his sabbatical he had never seen one of my letters informing a critic that I only add Ukip to my name when I am certain what I am writing is supported by the party line.

I have never practised or used the word sophistry – and, as far as I am aware, nor has my party – but he will know all about fallacious and misleading statements, considering that he is always showing his true colours – or should I say colour of the socialist flag, vibrant red!

Philip Bird, Nab Wood Terrace, Shipley