SIR – I refer to the story in the T&A (April 14) regarding mileage expenses paid by Bradford Council.

According to the story, £2 million was paid out during 2009-10 at a rate of 65p per mile. The HMRC-approved mileage allowance for this period was 40p.

Of course, the first response by the Council is, it’s not our fault. The local government employers’ group set the rates and Bradford Council is now looking at a way of opting out. I presume it is now looking to opt out simply because it has been brought to the attention of the taxpayer.

Looking at the figures quoted, the £2 million would come down to £1.2 million if the approved rate set by HMRC was being used. This is a saving of £800,000, more than the total that is reportedly being saved by closing and reducing the hours at various swimming pools across Bradford.

It is another example of looking for savings in the wrong places by Bradford Council, meaning public services are cut while expenses and benefits savings are overlooked.

Dare I suggest it’s expenditure like this that the Government was looking to slash, yet the councils would rather the cuts be from frontline services instead of their own pockets.

R Williams, Thorneycroft Road, East Morton