COMPUTERS are wonderful things. If Claire Lund's tax credit had been calculated by a human being, she would have received one measly letter.

Put a micro-processor in charge, and productivity is increased sevenfold. Claire has so far received seven letters from the Inland Revenue, each one offering a different assessment of her working and family life.

This is another case of a Government policy being rushed into place before the computerised infrastructure can cope. Claire has now been in contact with a real person who is looking to sort things out. They should begin by sending one more letter bearing an unequivocal message. Sorry.

Updated: 11:14 Wednesday, October 08, 2003