SIR - How many tax payers realise that our government has just voted an increase to our contribution to the EU, this club for ex MPs? Our contribution now totals £5.5 billion a year.

I fail to see what benefits we ordinary tax payers derive from the EU. We have been overwhelmed by mass immigration, partly caused by EU rules.

If the EU is so marvellous, why won't Mr Brown let the working and retired tax payer have a referendum on the new EU treaty which was promised in Labour's election manifesto? Heaven help us Blair becomes president.

MARGARET COLLETT, Worcester.