Visitors from Mars at present would be forgiven for thinking the National Health Service was not long for its own deathbed.

The propaganda wars about, let’s face it, the ideological inclinations and practical needs of the rich and the poor are being argued throughout the land. The resulting and inevitable compromise is likely to be uncomfortable for all.

In spite of this prospect, it is good to know that a majority of people in the country believe the taxpayer services provided do more good than harm*. Here’s a nice story to that effect from the Hampshire Chronicle which provided the cartoon above.

• Imagine how it might be if the Revenue was able (or, allowed) to collect the tax due it by global corporations who are active in business in the UK.