RESIDENTS may be as concerned as I am about the finances of the North Yorkshire and York Primary Care Trust.

My recent meeting with its management team leads me to conclude that the people of York and North Yorkshire face a major reduction in the quality and accessibility of health care if some of the new trust's economies proceed.

The PCT reportedly has the worst deficit in the country, and is beginning to implement cuts to address the situation.

Operations will be delayed, some treatments withdrawn, waiting times extended and drugs withheld. A key cause is the historic £37.1 million debt inherited by the NY&Y PCT from its four predecessor trusts.

The PCT has a 90 per cent loan from the Strategic Health Authority, which must be repaid.

This will continue to affect local NHS services for years. Next year's operational budget could be reduced to repay some of this loan, increasing pressure on health services.

City of York Council is considering a motion calling on the Health Secretary to write off this deficit and "Ditch the debt".

We have contacted council leaders and MPs across North Yorkshire asking them to join us in putting pressure on the Government to take action.

We have asked them to declare publicly that they believe that, as a minimum, the new PCT's inherited debt should be written off by central Government, so the trust can focus on the £20 million annual revenue challenge it faces.

Their support will clearly signal to the Government that health care should be a top priority and will give comfort to those feeling particularly vulnerable to any reduction in care.

To support the "ditch the debt" campaign, contact me by email: cllr.susangalloway@york.gov.uk

Coun Susan Galloway, Executive member for adult social services, City of York Council.