(This is about UK Item 304.608.11)

I've just started putting one together -- just have the sides assembled so far. Steps 5 and 6 (p.13) would have me attach two very heavy particle-board panels on the inside of each side. (In the US instructions this is step 4, p.8)

It looks to me like they are just there to add support to the drawer rails, which otherwise are bridging over a gap between the two verticals (with about 1/2 inch space between the rails and the outer side panel). But the only thing holding these in place are wooden pegs into the outer side panels -- nothing attaches them to the uprights, and the drawer rails don't screw down to them.

So are they necessary? It seems to me that they're just going to add a lot of weight without adding much structural support. I've seen assembly videos and photos where these inner panels are left out -- and maybe they aren't even included in some countries or in earlier versions of the kit? If I leave them out, am I going to end up with a much less sturdy dresser, or will the drawer rails bend outwards over time?

Thanks for the advice.