Hypocrisy on violence

Published on Sunday 26 October 2008 20:18

You, rightly, alerted readers to statistics, secured only by the Freedom of Information process, which show the increasing number of violent assaults in Scottish schools (your report, 25 October). This is an unacceptable situation which should not be tolerated by anyone.

In response, the government says that it wants "the best, most up-to-date and comprehensive evidence base on behaviour in schools". I agree. So why on earth is the Scottish Government persisting in its refusal formally to publish the statistics annually – the very statistics the SNP demanded when it was in opposition? Parents and teachers do not understand this hypocrisy.

ELIZABETH SMITH MSP

Scottish Conservative shadow spokesman on schools

The Scottish Parliament

A Scottish Government spokeswoman pathetically described violence against teachers as "unacceptable". It is a sign of the moral timidity of our time that "unacceptable" or "inappropriate" often seem the strongest condemnations we can muster.

In a school, wearing blue socks when the uniform policy specifies grey ones is "unacceptable"; hitting a teacher is outrageous and illustrates a complete breakdown of discipline and respect.

RICHARD LUCAS

Cowan Road

Edinburgh