SIR – The letter from Dr Ashton, “Let’s get it right about the NHS cutbacks”invites a response, so here is mine.

There will be more demand for health services because at least another 20,000 homes are planned in south Worcestershire, the county has an above average number of retired people and they tend to need more healthcare.

If one of the problems is “a forecast shortage of qualified staff” why has Worcestershire NHS cut posts in the last few years?

How much of the budget is spent on drugs? Have the drug companies been asked to lower their prices?

If the consultation opposes the plans Dr Ashton proposes will he commit to scrap them?

We often hear about “taking some hard decisions” which is code for we have consulted you but now we are going to ignore your views and carry on regardless.

If readers want to oppose these plans, attend the public meeting at 7.30pm tomorrow at St Andrew’s Church, Pump Street, Worcester.

PETE MCNALLY Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition, Malvern