Opinion split over teachers' right to strike

3:07pm Friday 25th April 2008

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By Jon Cheetham »

READERS' opinions are divided - almost down the middle - about whether teachers were right to strike.

Just over half of the people who have so far taken part in a News Shopper poll - 55 per cent - said they did not support the teachers' strike.

While 45 per cent of readers have backed the teachers in their first walk-out for more than 20 years.

Comments posted on the News Shopper website reflected the split.

Buttercup in Beckenham wrote: "I think teachers should take a long hard look at other jobs and see how much better off they are.

"Today I watched the demonstration by striking teachers make its way through Brixton.

"They left in their wake dumped and broken plackards and other rubbish.

"We always tell kids that dumping litter is wrong and indeed they could and should be issued with a fixed penalty notice.

"I think everyone on that protest today should consider the example they are setting the young people of this country and take some responsibility for the appalling examples they are setting our children."

Cleeve Parker, from Sidcup, wrote: "Let us think about how many people would not be upset in receiving a pay cut (below inflation) for the fourth year running and into the future.

"Parents and carers should support teachers getting paid properly as this encourages more quality people in to the profession.

"Let's have a reasonable consideration of the issues rather than the ill-considered rant of some posters."

Thousands of children and parents across the News Shopper area were affected by yesterday's strike over pay.

Members of the National Union of Teachers - angry about a below-inflation pay increase - of 2.45 per cent.

Bromley Council sent a letter to all teachers in the borough "advising on the implications of taking industrial action".

A spokesman for the council said the letter: "Provided guidance to headteachers on the steps they should take to plan for the potential impact.

"Our priority as a council is to minimise any negative effect on pupils in our schools."

Bexley Council did not want to comment on the strike because it was a national issue and not directed at the council.

However, Mayor of Lewisham Sir Steve Bullock accused the NUT of putting children's education "in jeopardy".

He said: "It is very unfortunate that the NUT feel they need to strike over this issue.

"The offer that has been made is considered reasonable and it is one that is very close to what has been offered to the rest of local government.

"Of course people have a right to take industrial action but Lewisham Council is responsible for the education of children and the NUT is putting this in jeopardy."