MADAM, I am very disappointed that neither national or local health officials chose to participate in the BBC2 programme "The Daily Politics" last week.

In the programme the failings of the new Hereford County Hospital were discussed.

The main problem stems from the lack of beds for inpatients. While patients are being seen promptly in outpatients departments for initial consultations, they have to wait many months to be admitted for investigations and surgery due to the lack of beds.

The BBC invited local and national officials to contribute to the programme. Medical staff from the hospital refused to speak on the record for fear of retribution.

The people of Herefordshire are owed an explanation as to how such a new hospital fails to provide the required level of service.

Dave Wesson,

Greenend, Hereford Road, Mardy, Abergavenny.(formerly from Ross on Wye).