THE EDITOR, Sir:
THE FINANCING of our education system has quite rightly taken centre stage. The Labour Party has come out quite firmly on the immediate full-financing of education up to secondary level. On the face of it, this has merit. It is a pity they have not spelt out how this is to be financed, given our current overstretched financial resources. To say they will cut where it is necessary is not enough. Where and how the cuts will occur are of crucial importance. Short of this may be classed as electioneering opportunism.
We recall the Labour Party in Government cut the subsidy on education on the grounds of inability to finance it. The Labour Party insists that the Government's financial position is worse then ever, yet a full commitment for an immediate increase is promised. We believe that the ultimate objective of a fully financed education is not unreasonable.
A more fundamental approach to education is necessary and of far greater significance. Early childhood education is of greater urgency. Prepare the child as early as possible and a greater reward is assured in its later years.
We suggest the cost-sharing system remain. Let the parents who are able to, finance their child's education and prop-up the less able through a means test module. It may well be that those at the very base pay nothing at all.
Let the more affluent among us pay for their children's education. Up-date the basic education system with qualified teachers and appropriate facilities. Let all children benefit from early childhood education and see all our children grow in standard and performance.
I am, etc.,
A.S. BYFIELD
St. Mary
