I TEND to agree with Sandy Wong (South China Morning Post, June 23) that it was inappropriate for the Governor to hail foreign domestic helpers (FDH) as heroines regarding their contribution to Hong Kong.

The territory has a severe shortage of creches and centres to care for the elderly. FDHs are simply an expensive substitute for what our government fails to provide. Many employers are hard-pressed working couples who have no alternative but to leave their loved ones in the hands of FDHs.

Please put money where your mouth is Mr Patten. Have you forgotten your pledge when you first arrived in Hong Kong? DAVID SUN Queensway