Letter: In brief

Sir: Yasmin Alibhai-Brown's article "The case of the racist kidneys" (8 July), considers a number of sensitive issues. The NHS has, for too long, depended on the goodwill and professionalism of black and Asian nurses. In my experience, black nurses will often make allowances for elderly, confused patients who may express prejudices. However, racism has no place in health care. Rather than colluding in discrimination (such as accepting "white only" birth plans) managers must support staff in stamping it out.

CHRISTINE HANCOCK

General Secretary

Royal College of Nursing

London W1