17 August 2023 , 21:21
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This year’s A-Level students in England have a right to feel hard done by.
Unlike in Wales and Northern Ireland, the examination boards refused to take into account studies disrupted by Covid. As a result there has been a record drop in the number of higher grades awarded. Students who have worked hard in the most trying of conditions have been unfairly penalised. Many will not be able to pursue their chosen degree at a university of their choice.
Education Secretary Gillian Keegan’s pronouncement that they should not worry as the results will be forgotten in a few years’ time only adds insult to injury. This Covid generation has been badly let down by the Government. Former adviser Sir Kevan Collins recommended at least £15billion to help those whose education was disrupted.
Rishi Sunak, then Chancellor, stumped up just a third of the amount requested. The only person who should be marked down is the Prime Minister.
Old hold tale
The Tories first promised to end the scramble for GP appointments last September. They made the same pledge in March and repeated it in May. So it’s understandable that patients will be cynical about the Health Secretary Steve Barclay announcing the same policy yet again.
Teachers, civil servants and train drivers walk out in biggest strike in decade
Anything which helps stop endless phone waits while trying to book an appointment will be welcome. But it will do nothing to resolve the central problem which is the failure by this Government to recruit enough local doctors. People are being kept endlessly on hold because GP numbers have hit a record low.
A-list Parky
Michael Parkinson may have mixed with showbiz royalty but he never forgot his Barnsley roots. He will be remembered for his great writing, passion for cricket and broadcasting prowess. But above all he was TV’s greatest interviewer: the A-list interrogator of A-list stars.