At last. Someone at the top of an organisation has had the courage to put a complex situation into plain English.

That refreshing accolade -- whether we agree with the content and context or not -- goes to Professor Brian Jewell, chairman of the Airedale NHS Trust.

In his annual report he talks of the great sense of frustration felt by the Trust's board members this year. The hospital has been rightly showered with praise and awards, but has not managed to balance its books.

That financial failure has resulted in it losing a star in this year's performance ratings, which in turn has scuppered the Trust's bid for what is called foundation status in October this year.

If the hospital had attained foundation status it would have been able to be more accountable to patients, manage its own budgets better and shape localised health care, or so the Government says.

Returning to the basic theme, the hospital in its bid to provide much needed services has spent too much money, especially on secondary care. Or, as Professor Jewell bluntly and clearly states -- "in plain housekeeping terms, we are living beyond our means and this situation has to be brought under control".

Cost cuts, such as a freeze on some services and ward closures, have already been brought in to get back on an even financial keel. The frustration of the board, which has found itself in a 'damned if it does -- damned if it don't', situation is understandable.

So what are the general public and patients to make of this stuff and nonsense?

This debate will rage on and will be high on the next general election agenda, when the people can make their feelings known.

The board must of course not be reckless with the public purse, but if treating patients means being in the red, then so be it.

The Government knows where it can stick its stars.