I HAD to put pen to paper to sympathise with poor Moira Walker, the woman left hanging on the phone by British Gas (Citizen, July 27).

I too have suffered this experience, being passed from pillar to post by monosyllabic switchboard operators.

These utility companies, even in this era of free trade, they still have you over a barrel, it takes so much messing around to change all your banking arrangements, etc.

Yes, these days I pay all my bills directly through my bank, in regular monthly payments.

I didn't used to.

But when I learned that these rip-off merchants were charging people more if they didn't pay by standing order or direct debit, I soon changed my mind.

But what is most shocking of all is that they charge the poorest people the most.

Those who pay by these credit card type of arrangements, get charged more than anyone. It's so unfair, and typical of these fat cat firms.

James Thomas, Leyland