IT used to be said that everyone in politics only thinks in terms of the next election, never for the long term. However I think someone in a think tank must have has sussed things out.

I wrote some time ago that staff at a Newcastle hospital stated that the closure of Northallerton and downgrading of Darlington hospitals was on the table and not one comment in denial was forthcoming.

It is now starting to happen.

It was stated in the press some time ago that James Cook hospital in Middlesbrough was treating more people in A&E than it was designed for.

Look at the amount of housing that is being built in the Yarm area, letalone in Richmond and Catterick Garrison (which is going to be the biggest garrison in Europe). Just getting to James Cook for an appointment is a nightmare.

If we all have to eventually go to James Cook, the major problems in Britain will be solved – it will take such a long time to get there a load of us will pop off before we get to be treated. This will solve the school place crisis, the housing crisis, the hospital bed crisis, the care in old age crisis and even the immigration problem as there will be room for newcomers.

D Kemp, Richmond