IF Bucko (LT June 14) neither likes the NHS nor wishes to use the ‘hugely bloated and wasteful institution’, he can always stand aside and let worthy and needy individuals use its services instead. Then by all means, use his beloved private health system and carry on smoking, if that’s what floats his boat.

Of course, next time either bucko or his friends or family require emergency treatment, A&E or maternity services, phone your private hospital, wait for the ambulance, and see how ‘profit versus health’ works.

One further point: could I remind all readers where most of the medical staff (doctors, nurses, technicians, etc) that work in the private sector are trained, and by whom?

Our NHS is the envy of many countries worldwide and although it may have its failings, there are many millions of people who are and will be (I very much hope) very grateful for our ‘bloated, wasteful’ service.

John P, BB3 3DY