Felipe Hewitt (Letters, June 3) asks why the NHS should take care of those "who have made themselves unhealthy through drugs, drink and gluttony".

Until three years ago, I lived in the North of England and remember the sickness and injuries incurred by those who made the products we take for granted - washing machines, electrical goods, textiles, paper and so on. Should we deny those who have - and still do - make life easier for all of us, treatment?

Mr Hewitt also said NHS staff "generally keep fit". I use local hospital services and have noticed many staff are over the healthy weight limit.

-Mike Mitchell, Hove