IT IS hypocritical of Keith Mitchell to profess sympathy with the victims of bed blocking (Oxford Mail, July 28).

Councillor Mitchell conveniently overlooks the fact that he is responsible for the county council, including social services. He should be dealing with the problem, not wringing his hands in faux distress.

Shortage of funds is no excuse. Mr Mitchell and the Government he supports have chosen to cut spending faster than is necessary, and inability to provide essential services is the inevitable result of their policy.

And before he makes any gratuitous remarks about deficit deniers, Mr Mitchell would do well to reflect on the fact that in this instance his purblind pursuit of short-term cuts has actually ended up costing the taxpayer more.

Cllr CHRIS ROBINS Foxdown Close Kidlington