Health priorities

Following a fourth report into failings of care in the Scottish NHS, this time from a body representing health professionals in Scotland, the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges and Faculties (your report, 10 July), I have a suggested To Do list for Nicola Sturgeon and her SNP Holyrood colleagues.

First, stop concentrating on back-door separation from the UK, contrary to the democratically expressed will of the people.

Second, stop fixating on constitutional political game-playing at Westminster.

Third, start demonstrating how existing and new tax and welfare powers can be used to improve the lives of Scots, particularly for the less well-off in our society.

Fourth, and, in particular, start addressing, as a matter of urgency, what this latest health service report calls “deep-rooted and systemic” failings in the Scottish NHS, particularly with regard to “unsafe staffing levels”.

The SNP has been in power for eight years at Holyrood – Scotland has a right to expect more from Ms Sturgeon’s government.

Martin Redfern

Royal Circus

Edinburgh