NHS has been systematically run down

Sir, – Despite Boris Johnson’s assurances, we know that vital protective gear is not reaching the health workers. Some gear that is arriving is years out of date.

I have seen reports that the wrong level of protective gear is to be supplied and there is a massive shortage of testing equipment.

The NHS has a pathetic level of necessary respirators compared to other developed countries.

I have heard some people claim that Johnson is doing a good job. Certainly if Churchillian words were backed up by actions there would be no issue but fine words are not providing hospitals and health workers with the supplies they need and certainly not quickly enough. It has to be remembered that for decades now all opposition parties have complained of the fact that the Conservative Party is systematically running down the NHS.

For the last decade Boris Johnson has been a key member of his party and must share responsibility for the inadequacies.

Some people will say that now is not the time to indulge in political point scoring. I say that is not what I am doing and that pointing out the facts is never wrong.

My last point is directly aimed at all the Brexiteers who want to stop migrants coming to our country.

Where would we be now if not for all the foreign doctors, nurses, hospital cleaners and others who are doing such amazing work to care for us all while we get through this horrible time?

Harry Key.

20 Mid Street, Largoward.