1. Regarding PMH being so overcrowded, it should be pointed out that the hospital has a very humane policy of never closing, unlike RUH and the Radcliffe, and so it is hardly surprising that, at times, it is 110 per cent full.

2. One question that needs clarifying is why are the rails only lasting about 25 per cent of their expected lifespan. Why? Is there adequate quality control where the rails are manufactured? Are the rails being subject to strains and stresses beyond that for which they were designed?

Mollie Groom

Chestnut Springs

Lydiard Millicent

Swindon