I WRITE in response to Mathew Laverack’s comments on one of the few thriving industries of the present time, home and room rentals (Letters, February 20).

Obviously I was aware that some tax was paid arising from gains in this lucrative industry. However, if Mr Lavarack or any of his friends or colleagues are paying 40 per cent income tax on any rents collected, can I suggest he changes his accountant.

My letter on this subject, due to its length, was edited. This involved deleting two important references.

One was the fact that many people are now using property rentals as a means of creating a pension pot. The second, and perhaps more important, was a plea to bring back rent tribunals and related safeguards to protect the rights of everyone involved.

Space prevents me from giving any further examples of where Mr Lavarack exaggerates the case he is attempting to make. However, his comments do beg the question: If this sort of investment is so fraught with hazards, why is it such a growth area of business in today’s economic environment?

Liz Edge, Parkside Close, York.