In response to Paul Eason's comments about the hike in taxi fares (Letters, February 17), like most people who do not work in the taxi business, he assumes that the fare minus petrol equals profit.

Out of the fare the taxi business has to buy the car which with extras can vary between £20,000 and £40,000. These cars have to be replaced after a few years due to wear and tear.

Taxis have to have safety inspections and be serviced every six weeks. Then there are various insurances for vehicle, driver, liability etc. Then there is the percentage that goes to the driver - 40 to 45 per cent. Only 50 to 55 per cent goes to the owner or business. Yes, it can be worth your while at times.

But at other times a taxi driver can take home less than the minimum wage for weeks at a time.

  • June Knight, St Helen's Road, Hastings