Letters

Published: 07/03/2002, Volume II2, No. 5795 Page 23

A parasite is something that relies on a host for its own viability.

Private sector health relies on the NHS for most of its trained staff and typically for the care of patients who develop serious complications.

Correspondents from the private sector (letters, 14 February) who object to the use of the term 'parasitical' are in fact only putting forward arguments that this state of affairs should be allowed to continue.

Martyn Smith Chief officer West Birmingham CHC