It amused me that British Gas have decided to fine customers for late payment of their bills.

Former tenants of mine left my premises owing British Gas large sums for gas and electricity, so I supplied the utility with information of the tenants whereabouts now.

Nevertheless unknown to mem, British Gas broke into the premises to replace the existing meters, with ones that operate on the basis of paying off the debts of the previous tenants, using a system of keys and cards.

New tenants are still paying off the debts of the previous occupants, whilst calls letters and e-mails go unanswered by British Gas.

The involvement of Energywatch, the customer watchdog, has made no difference whatsoever and together with the tenants I feel completely helpless, as over a period of five months there has been no progress whatsoever.

No doubt if British Gas persues its present policy of walking all over its customers, it will have very few clients left to fine.

JEFFREY SOMERS, Nottingham.