Most countries make sure emergency services, such as the police and ambulance, are well-funded. Why do the new government ministers on $250,000 a year think St John should be underfunded and understaffed? Many of the above have been sworn to protect the working conditions of the public. Will this happen just before the next election? Are all Beehive staff on the living wage? The people ­­who put you into office want a fair deal for their efforts. Not too many volunteers come from MPs so don't expect free labour from the thousands of volunteers who never get paid, and often get little thanks.

R Chamberlain, Otumoetai.