NOWADAYS it’s illegal to discriminate against people on grounds of age, sex, disability and other things.

However, discrimination against people who don’t have or can’t use a computer is growing at a phenomenal rate.

I recently rang up to obtain an application form for a position at York Hospital.

I was shocked to be told that York Hospital no longer produces paper application forms and that all job applications must be completed online.

When I complained that I didn’t have a computer I was advised to use library facilities.

That’s all very well, but as library users know, the branches all have limited opening and the main city library closes mid-evening and is closed from Saturday afternoon to Monday morning.

In addition, computer use is limited to two hours per day and it’s not always possible to find a vacant slot.

It is true that there are internet cafés as well, but these facilities cost money to use.

Is it really necessary that if one wants to apply to be a cleaner or a kitchen assistant for example, then an online application has to be completed? It seems that York Hospital is discriminating against those who don’t own or can’t use a computer, even if it’s not necessary for a job.

As one national chain bookstore has just withdrawn its club card in favour of email offers and ten per cent discount is only given to those who book East Coast Main Line train tickets online, it seems as if this type of discrimination is set to grow.

Oh, and who are the people who don’t have computers? The elderly, of course (often our poorest members of society), and the poorest people who simply cannot afford to buy a computer.

Dale Edwards, Newborough Street, Bootham, York.