Dear Editor,
I have noted the meagre increase in the old-age pension, and as a pensioner I would personally welcome a reduction in or complete removal of the oppressive VAT, that is creating much hardship in the lives of the elderly.

Many pensioners are home owners, and repairs are necessary, but lumber, nails and the fat fees charged by tradesmen for workmanship attract VAT.

Added to all this are the millstones of GWI and GPL. I happened to be one week in arrears, when I was ruthlessly disconnected and forced to pay $3,200 to be re-connected. How can anyone exist with such harsh demands?
Yours faithfully,
Shirley Rose