JOHN Evans, in his letter 'Royals should be treated like charity' demonstrates how little is generally known of the finances of the Royal Family.

Many years ago, the Royal Family gave up to the Exchequer the income from the Crown Estates, presently about £160 million annually.

This had, up to then, been used to pay for, among other things, the judiciary, leaving that body open to claims of corruption, in exchange for the Civil List, an agreement still adhered to.

At present, fixed since January 1991 and to continue certainly for the next 10 years, the figure of £7.9 million is provided by the Queen's Civil List, giving more than £152 million per year profit to the Exchequer.

You may have your own views as to how well this is used by the Government. The Queen, voluntarily, arranged that the Civil List should be taxed.

Prince Charles does not receive any money from the Civil List, but depends on the income from the Duchy of Cornwall, which varies according to his stewardship of the Duchy.

About half of that income is now, voluntarily, passed over to the Exchequer.

For the uninformed, the Queen and the Royal Family do not own Buckingham Palace, St James Palace or Windsor Castle, though, when the latter caught fire, not only did they physically pitch in to rescue some of the priceless works of art, but paid considerable sums of money towards the rebuilding.

Nor does the Queen own the Crown Jewels, or any of the many gifts from other countries. They remain State property and cannot be sold.

Far from being a charity, I suggest the Royal Family are charitable towards the rest of the country.

To Mr Evans' suggestions of fund-raising events, may I point out that "outdoor rave-ups" have taken place in Hyde Park and in St James Park (two of the Royal parks), that tours of Buckingham Palace can be arranged (£10.50 adult, £5 child) by phoning 020 7321 1377, or the Royal Mews (£4.30) phone 020 7839 1377.

The Cabinet War Room costs £4. 80 per adult.

For information on the Tower of London, phone 020 7709 0765.

All monies, after expenses, go to the Exchequer.

Mr Evans, research your subject before going into print with an ill-informed attack on those you know are constrained by custom from replying.

R Miles

Teak Street

Bury