Letters

Published: 11/03/2004, Volume II4, No. 5896 Page 21

I welcome the Wanless report - particularly the emerging role of local government in public health.

In regions where primary care trusts work closely with local government, there is a strong shared vision of the task ahead and greater capacity to deliver it.

In many ways, this takes public health back to where it started in the 19th century - and look at the effect public bodies had on the health of the population then.

It has also focused the minds of regional organisations such as government offices, development agencies and assemblies.

The white paper consultation provides a unique opportunity to develop a common purpose across all organisations, as well as defining the responsibility of individuals.

Paul Johnstone Director of public health Yorkshire and Humber regional public health directorate