English MPs should speak for England

Monday, September 15, 2008, 23:00

IN a keynote address by Ben Bradshaw, Minister of Health for England, to the CBI conference of health, when complaining about the Welsh allowing free parking in hospitals, he acknowledged that spending per head on health in England was less than in Scotland and Wales but claimed that waiting times were less and it was easier to see a GP, MP scathing of Welsh NHS, Echo, September 13.
Such a claim is arguable and to boast about spending less on health in England would be acceptable only if there was no criticism of the NHS in England.
Many drugs and desired improvements are held back for lack of financial resources and only in England are increasing prescription charges levied.
The English are denied the opportunity to decide their own financial priorities that are imposed upon them directly by the UK government led by a Scottish Prime Minister and Chancellor of the Exchequer.
It is time for all MPs representing English constituencies, including Mr Bradshaw, to stand up and speak for England against the unfair way in which we are now being governed in all matters, of which health is but one example.

Don Beadle
Gosport, Hants

"To be born English is to win first prize in the lottery of life"