I am proud of our NHS - and that's why I'll vote Labour at the next election

AS a socialist, I would like to defend the National Health Service against those Conservatives who say that they: would not wish it on anyone . I first developed clinical depression when I was studying for my A levels at the Wisbech Grammar School in 1

AS a socialist, I would like to defend the National Health Service against those Conservatives who say that they: 'would not wish it on anyone'.

I first developed clinical depression when I was studying for my 'A' levels at the Wisbech Grammar School in 1978.

The late Dr Dennis Morgan, consultant psychiatrist for the Wisbech area was able to successfully treat my depression using medication.

Since then, I have been helped by members of the Wisbech Community Mental Health Team, which is led today by consultant psychiatrist Dr Berraondeo.

The NHS was set up in 1948 by the then Labour Government in the face of stiff opposition from the Conservative Party and the British Medical Association.

This opposition to the NHS by the Conservative Party continues today when some of its members give support to the anti-universal health care campaigners in the USA.

President Barack Obama is facing concerted opposition to his plans to introduce health care for the 45 million Americans without health insurance.

In spite of the squeeky clean image of David Cameron's new Conservative Party, the National Health Service is not: 'safe in their hands'.

As someone who continues to use the services of the Wisbech Community Mental Health Team, I will therefore be voting Labour in the next general election.

Unlike some Conservative parliamentarians, I am proud of our NHS.

JOHN SMITHEE

Wisbech