Dr Ford's backward comments

The Editor, Sir:

I am dismayed at the backward comments coming out of Jamaica with regards to the present Government's offering universal free health and education services. Dr Jephthah Ford's letter published on April 3 on the reason for Gary Buchanan was astoundingly biased.

Let me take this opportunity to bring to the attention of your readers recent comments made by the French president at a dinner at the White House. Nicolas Sarkozy said, with regards to the recent US health reform bill, "welcome to the club of nations who do not turn their backs on the sick and the poor". He continued, "the very fact there should have been such a violent debate simply on the fact that the poorest of Americans should be left out in the streets without a cent is astonishing to us". Nuff said!

Perhaps, Dr Ford and those who are opposing a free health and education system should be more vocal in condemning the 40 per cent of eligible taxpayers who are evading their duties as law-abiding citizens. Perhaps if the absent 40 per cent were to become law-abiding citizens, there would be sufficient funds available to pay for more doctors and teachers, to improve facilities, etc.

On to another gripe, shame on K.D. Knight for his insulting behaviour towards a fellow member of the Senate. His use of language in the Senate is deplorable. Stupid is not the nicest word to describe anyone, and is certainly not 'honourable' behaviour.

I am, etc.,

ANDREW HARPER

Andrewvharper@hotmail.com

London,

England