Sir – We are constantly told that bankers need huge bonuses, as otherwise nobody would ever take on such stressful and high-risk jobs.

A recent health issue leads me to challenge this claim. Not long ago I began to think that all was not well with me. Over a short period of time I received very prompt, expert and sensitive diagnosis and treatment from ancillary staff, care assistants, nurses, doctors and consultants at The Marston Medical Centre, and then at different departments of the Oxford Heart Centre in the John Radcliffe Hospital.

It culminated in my being diagnosed with angina, and on Monday of last week having an urgent procedure to insert a stent.

All went very well, and I am now feeling great. I can’t thank them all enough for this outstanding service, despite the constant cuts and pressures they face.

So, could a banker kindly explain to me how NHS workers are able to perform brilliantly in such stressful, risky, life-and-death situations without huge bonuses and often on low pay?

Francis Josephs
Noke