10 FEBRUARY 1990, Page 25

Taxing question

Sir: The writer of your interesting article on the inheritance tax (Leading article, 3 February) did not mention one point that is, that if you leave your money to one of the thousands of registered charities, no tax has to be paid. This seems very unfair.

I am one of the industrious middle classes referred to. My husband was an engineer, I have been an artist and a nurse, and then I brought up five children. I would like to leave them all something to face the future with. So I have a gambling choice. Do I give them as much as possible now, and try to live seven years? Or do I keep it all, and die quickly, so that I don't use it up?

Margaret S. Dunkley

13 Southborough Road, Surbiton, Surrey