With the Government's proposal to outsource hospital meals, putting hundreds more employees out of work, it seems to me shortsightedness in election year.

However, the members of parliament should set an example. Close Bellamy's, the Beehive restaurant, and have them supplied with the outsourced meals. Instead of catering staff, a microwave oven should suffice.

At the same time the bar could be open for short periods of time as it appears to me when laws are passed insufficient detail is taken resulting in loopholes in the law which require expensive legislation, at the taxpayer's expense, to close, due to overindulgence in refreshment.

Dignitaries would be overjoyed at having a defrosted meal as much as the hospital patients.

The chefs and catering staff would be reemployed at suitable rest homes or retirement villas.

LR Sinclair, Matua.