PAGE four of The Press (April 29) alleges a dispute in the Government. In fact this was due to incorrectly reported versions of what Iain Duncan Smith said in response to a question about whether wealthy pensioners should return their bus passes and winter fuel allowances.

What he actually said was that they could do so if they wished. He did not urge anyone. In fact there is a mechanism in place for pensioners who feel the need to return their winter fuel and bus pass.

Furthermore, once a pensioner’s bus pass is issued, no cost is involved until it is used on a bus; many find it is often more convenient to pay for alternative forms of transport.

The winter fuel allowance is easily outweighed by the tax paid annually by a large number of pensioners and is minuscule compared with the multiple benefits received by others of all ages.

The majority of pensioners and/or their spouses have paid taxes throughout their working lives, some still pay tax on their pension and more when there is an annual increase. It can be said that their dues have been paid.

J Beisly, Osprey Close, York.