Why we deserve value for money

While standards are improving, they are still woefully below that expected of Sheffield which allegedly prides itself on the good start it gives to all children by prioritising education.

Improvements indicate a glacial rate of change with results in science, maths and English improving by just one per cent. The overall standing compared with other education authorities, which last year saw Sheffield slump to the 140th position out of 150, is yet to be calculated, but you don't have to be a maths genius to calculate that the system still lets down our children.

Education does not come cheap and it is time the public had the opportunity to question whether they are getting value for money.

Edging more to sink below poverty line

YOU don't need a team of MPs to tell you that the council tax system is unfair. That is obvious to anyone who struggles every month to pay their bills.

The MPs, including Attercliffe's Clive Betts, were investigating the plight of children whose families exist below the poverty line. This includes 600,000 whose parents still have to pay full council tax. Another startling figure is that 700,000 adults don't earn enough to pay income tax yet they are still expected to meet their financial obligations in full to their local council.

The MPs are likely to suggest that these people be spared the cash burden and the cost is carried by the rest of us. But then there is the chance even more will be edged below the poverty line.

Laughing at death

NITROUS oxide, otherwise known as laughing gas, has been used by the medical profession for something like 200 years. Now, though, comes the warning that the anaesthetic given to millions of patients every year may create post-operative risks, including the danger of heart attack. Still, looking on the bright side, the doctor will be able to tell your family you died laughing!