IN advising us of his involvement on behalf of the Royal Bolton Hospital, Dr Brian Iddon, MP, unwittingly exposes the utter powerlessness of ordinary Members of Parliament.

His many efforts consisted of "regular meetings" with various executives, "countless letters" and the "raising of various questions". The results of all this are less than zero: the situation at the RBH, and elsewhere, is deteriorating inexorably. Dr Iddon also tells us that there had been "extra money under Labour". The fact is that, under Labour, the funding of the NHS has reached its lowest percentage of total spending by far of all comparable European countries.

Mr Banks, Consultant Surgeon and expert insider, believes that Mr David Young's use of words in the matter had been "unfortunate". Is not the wording "enjoying an expensive bed and breakfast" also unfortunate? Hardly anyone "enjoys" a stay in hospital, not even in the super -- or one-star only? -- Royal Bolton. Are perhaps some less savoury conditions at the hospital being kept from Mr Banks?

Whereas he quite correctly points to Central Government policy as the main reason for unacceptable conditions, his request for yet more dialogue would keep the vicious circle going for ever, though: talk is cheap, it is the politician's main tool. The true professional, on the other hand, must protest more often and uncompromisingly against the irresponsibility of mere lip service. It is the only hope British NHS patients have left.

Mrs B Stuart

Lord's Stile Lane

Bromley Cross, Bolton