REGARDING your report ‘Doctor gets ban over his bad English’ (August 15): My goodness, his English must have been seriously poor for him to be banned.

Bournemouth University is incredibly successful in attracting overseas students wishing to study for PHDs. Not only do they pay handsomely for the privilege of studying in Bournemouth, they also have to demonstrate, by way of an exam, that they have a sound knowledge of the written and spoken word as well as technical language in English in their chosen field of study. I know this because I have a friend who tutors these prospective students to ensure exam passes to be able to study here.

Why no such exam for doctors before the NHS pays them handsomely to come to work in the UK?

There have been numerous terrible stories of medical mishaps because of the difficulties in understanding conversations between patients and doctors, and their colleagues.

I’m sure those wanting to come here to work would be willing to meet the challenge if it was set by law.

CLLR ELAINE ATKINSON OBE Borough of Poole