I note with interest the recent flurry of letters with regard to Mr Gray MP and Mr Fox PPC. I was especially amused by Mr Fox's request for a public debate on Marshfield Road Surgery.

This is, in theory, a fantastic idea but it shows that Mr Fox doesn't know Mr Gray that well. Perhaps I will be proven wrong (I hope so) but it is my experience (and the experience of Friends of Marshfield Surgery) that Mr Gray will avoid a public challenge like this at all costs. This is, after all, the man who told FOMS that he "didn't come to his surgery to answer questions" before threatening to storm off like a huffy teenager. Further this is also the man who refused to come to any of the public meetings supporting Marshfield Road Surgery as he "may have to answer questions".

On the subject of Marshfield Road Surgery I believe you passed over a major story a little too quickly last week. Many of Dr Williams' patients were informed by letter that if we received private care from Dr Williams we would be unable to receive NHS care now or in the future.

The PCT must be taken to task for their terror tactics. Anyone receiving private care from any doctor has no obligation to inform the PCT that they are choosing to do this. Any British citizen is entitled to walk into an NHS hospital or NHS doctors' surgery and receive free care.

Dr Williams' private patients receive the same high level of care and service that his NHS patients did. Dr Williams' fees are clearly laid out and very reasonable. Many patients are finding that their private prescriptions are cheaper than NHS prescriptions and if a patient requires an expensive medicine or a referral to an NHS hospital Dr Williams will inform the patient and make arrangements for them to see an NHS doctor.

Choosing to receive private care does not stop you from receiving NHS care.

Alan Donald

Chippenham Town Councillor Elect