Middle way could be A&E cure

AS EXPECTED, the SNP has reversed a decision made by the previous Executive to close local A&E units in Ayr and Monklands, on the grounds of local opposition. This move has been criticised by Dr David Kerr, the man responsible for the plan to centralise A&E units across Scotland in centres of excellence, as "sentimental, emotional and irrational". Who is right?

Dr Kerr's original strategy document, published in 2005, expresses the dilemma clearly: "Patients and the general public told us at our open meetings that they wanted services delivered locally ... They have lost ... confidence in the NHS due to what...