Robbed twice

I am a newsagent and recently had a visit from the VAT man who expressed concern at my low VAT payment for the quarter ended 31 March 2012.

I explained that thieves had broken into my shop one night in January and stolen the expensive till I use to accurately record the VAT due on the wide variety of goods I sell.

As well as the till which had an entire day’s cash takings in it the thieves took all of my stock of cigarettes confectionary and magazines.

I did not account for VAT on any of this and could not afford to open the shop until my insurance claim was settled in February.

The VAT man asked to see my insurance claim and told me he would be issuing an assessment for an amount equal to one-sixth of the claim.

I thought insurance was exempt...