THE recent 10p tax U-turn by the Government, which will theoretically give 20 million people about £150 of their tax bill back, reminds me of the classic magician's trick where he distracts the audience by waving money in his right hand, while he deftly lifts his subject's wallet with his left.

The budget announcement of car licence fee increases will, we are told affect about 18 million drivers by about £200 a year.

It seems like the magician's hand has got stuck in the subject's pocket and the audience has caught him at it in mid-trick.

I drive a little 60 plus mpg speed bump jumper and pay £185 licence fee per year for the privilege.

A few weeks ago I filled my car with diesel in Gibraltar (55.9p).

I thought that while the magician got caught with his hand in my pocket, how many of his assistants have I got to keep my eye on?

And will the next act standing in the wings have just as many tricks up their sleeves?

JOHN CRAMSIE SNR, Johnston Street, Blackburn.