GAVIN Cox's report on bullying (Mercury November 24) posed some serious questions for our schools. Even TV personality Esther Rantzen's train journey to Weston for the anti-bullying conference wasn't trouble-free when she encountered some abusive youths,
GAVIN Cox's report on bullying (Mercury November 24) posed some serious questions for our schools.Even TV personality Esther Rantzen's train journey to Weston for the anti-bullying conference wasn't trouble-free when she encountered some abusive youths, describing them as having "a total lack of discipline". Now there's a surprise!But let's be clear. Most young people are polite and hard working, a credit to their families. However, we have failed to cope with those who are not, and they have increased in numbers.We had few concerns at the beginning of my teaching career.Bullies were caned, slippered or expelled. Bullying was not tolerated. Even the local police officer and clergy joined in to support the teachers and parents.But a liberal change has taken place. Police and teachers are now powerless in a society where the criminal's rights are taken above those of the victim.JOHN CARTERNorth Somerset Education Committee 1995-2003Addicott Road, Weston
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