Over the past few years, the healthcare crisis in Enfield has become particularly acute. We have seen the downgrading of Chase Farm Hospital and the pressure this has placed on other local hospitals. A number of GP practices have closed and the London Ambulance Service in the borough has one of the worst response times for life-threatening calls throughout London.

One would think that the current situation would give local MPs plenty of issues to campaign on. However, why is it that Nick de Bois MP thinks a health issue he should be really vocal about is opposing the introduction of standardised cigarette packaging? I have seen a number of comments by him in the press on this issue and note that he voted against the proposal in parliament on Wednesday, March 11.

Plain cigarette packaging is supported by health experts and can play an important role in reducing the number of children taking up smoking. This measure would have positive health benefits and it seems clear to me that this is something Mr de Bois should support and not oppose.

Thank goodness Mr de Bois lost this argument and parliament voted for plain packaging. His health priorities are questionable at best.

Nesil Cazimoglu

via email