SIR – Regarding the debate in these pages on local authority staff – essential user car mileage allowance has thrown up more than one popular misconception.
As a one-time company car driver, I know that there is a substantial tax penalty relating to the benefit involved. Also, even the humble van driver who is allowed to take his vehicle home at night is also penalised on a ‘flat rate’ basis by H M Revenue & Customs.
The self-employed, who by common belief can claim everything on expenses to set against profits, also have to make a deduction from such claims to cover any personal use of their vehicle.
But take it from me, the public sector employee who enjoys the kind of mileage payments for use of their own car, as reported, is on a winner!
D S Boyes, Rodley Lane, Leeds
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