THE Prince of Wales' journey from Euston to York last December cost the taxpayer nearly £18,000 for what was essentially a day trip (June 25).

That bill is more than the average person's annual wage. I consider this to be a disgrace. People should be sent a consent form along with their council tax bill for permission towards funding the civil list.

There should be a list of who benefits from the list and a box after each name to state whether you want your money going to that person, or not.

It will make for better value for money when they know that they will not be handed it on a silver platter, for reason of who they are.

There is no excuse to charter a private plane, ship, train or helicopter.

Mrs J Taylor,

Tennent Road,

Acomb, York.

Updated: 10:19 Monday, June 27, 2005