Ryan St George

• YOUR Comment (In this century, decisions must come with transparency, August 15) is a timely reminder how those in power can rely on lesser bureaucracies in the vast system of government to assist in one of their classic cover-ups.

Of course Ryan St George’s death should have been fully and quickly investigated at the time, and the coroner service should be acutely sensitive to a widespread perception that it is subject to pressure from those in power.

If in doubt, hold an inquest, and examine allegations that government uses its power to lean on subordinate but supposedly independent bodies to gloss over maladministration.

How many vulnerable benefit claimants, for example, have died as a result of overstretched bureaucracies seeking relief from pressure by resorting to cruel state bullying?

FW ANDERSON, NW3