Many happy returns

A paper version of the 2010 self assessment tax return has just landed on my mat.

I am now in the habit of filing online and will continue to do so. Here is a letter that I have not bothered to send to HMRC about it:

Dear sir/madam

Thank you for my tax return. I think you might agree that the words you use are not very friendly.

‘Your tax return

‘This notice requires you by law to make a return of your taxable income and capital gains and any documents requested.
‘We must receive your return by these dates: …

‘You will be charged a £100 penalty [your emphasis not mine] if your tax return is received after the appropriate deadline. If you pay late you will be charged interest and possibly a surcharge. Welcome to modern Britain.’ (I made that last sentence up!)

Don’t...