OF course East Lancashire Health Trust is now in special measures – and rightly so.

November 2007 was the date when the ruling Labour government decided, foolishly in my view, to close Burnley’s A & E.

Never mind the blame game now that is being played out in full glory amongst the Westminster mob, they must now concentrate all their efforts into restoring confidence into our NHS – once the envy of the world.

However, what sticks in my gullet is MP Jack Straw’s comments in the Telegraph: ‘Today’s report shows clearly that the emergency department of Royal Blackburn Hospital, over the last year, was one of the busiest in the country.’ You don’t say, Jack – try looking back to November 2007.

All politicians, including Labour, who were so responsible for this state of affairs from 2007 onwards need to get over themselves and move on.

Stop the blame game, stop seeking ‘photo opportunities’ and ‘morale-boosting talks’ to staff who have suffered as a cause of your inaction and make sure we all are given the excellent treatment and respect we need.

Finally, please don’t insult our intelligence by now looking wide-eyed and disappointed.

Coun Konrad Tapp, Meadowhead Ward, BWDBC.