Still hanging on

SIR – I hope Dr Ashworth (Letters, July 25), listening to music as he hung on the telephone, was not waiting for assistance on the helpline recommended by HM Revenue and Customs for people experiencing problems trying to make their online quarterly VAT return.

I have been trying to get through on it for three working days without success. The recorded message simply announces that they are overwhelmed.

I bet the division that sends out fines for late submission of VAT returns is much more efficient.

Jeremy Taylor London SW7