SO Burnley councillors vote for a big rise in their expenses. Why?

The council is writing off debts of £60,000, which includes pre-paid salaries to the Burnley and Pendle race equality councils which went bust and Pendle Aeroform, which went into receivership, was allowed to use council land as a car park for three years without paying rent (LET, January 22).

Are Burnley residents allowed to not pay their council tax for three years, then have it written off? No fear. Miss one monthly payment and a warning letter is sent.

Park on a Burnley car park without paying and you are fined.

Councillors should be accountable for monies written off in this way -- never mind receiving a rise.

It should be an honour to represent the people of Burnley, not a gravy train.

KATHLEEN BULCOCK (Mrs), Wilkie Avenue, Burnley.