THE letter from David Preston (19/5/2017) regarding the NHS reminds me of the saying attributed to King Louis XIV of France, who when challenged about the cost of the building of his monumental palace at Versailles replied 'apres moi la deluge' ; roughly translated- suggesting that ‘when I am dead and no longer around only then will the true cost of building my palace be appreciated.'

Few would wish to dispute the points Mr Preston makes in his letter regarding personal responsibility for lifestyles, but the problems go much deeper.

How many times have we heard about political leaders ‘taking tough decisions’ when the reality is totally different.

Two fundamental challenges face this country- firstly, the problems of a rapidly ageing population, such as ours, and secondly, the scientific evidence for the impending catastrophe of global warming.

Is either mentioned by the main political leaders in all the knock-about of the present election campaign?

I think we know the answer.

A recent detailed study by ‘Global Future’ suggests that we need to attract some 200,000 immigrants each year into this country to deal with all the consequences of an ageing population – such as labour shortages, low productivity and a declining natural birth rate.

As to global warming - the scientific consensus for global warming very clearly shows that the Arctic ice cap is melting at a frightening rate and there has already been a marked rise in sea levels, with all the consequences for low lying countries and even major cities like London and New York.

The facts are there and we have, I believe, the intelligence to deal with the issues that are raised, but unless political leaders, especially at election times, begin to discuss these issues then as Private Fraser says in Dad’s Army, ‘we are all doomed’, or as King Louis might have agreed 'after me the deluge.’

Fortunately I am at an age when I can try and appreciate the advice of another famous Frenchman Voltaire- 'it is time to cultivate one's garden’ (global warming permitting!)

Gordon Cann

Craigmoor Avenue, Bournemouth