Sir, I have just had the humiliating experience of applying for registration under the Private Dentistry Wales Regulations. Not only was I subjected to a criminal record check, I also had to provide two referees who could vouch for my clinical competence. Thirty years of NHS service apparently counted for nothing. I wasn't even trusted to give my own name and address but had to submit proof in the form of a birth certificate, domestic utility bill and verified passport photograph.

If the Government really wants to improve the standard of private dentistry it should encourage and support dental professionals rather than abuse and demean them.