Firms shouldn’t penalise the privately educated

SIR – The plans for companies and the Civil Service to ask employees whether or not they went to a public school (“‘Purge of the middle class’ fears at top firms”, report, June 16) are completely unfair.

No child decides whether or not they receive a private education, and many only do because their parents have made huge sacrifices.

Caroline Barr

Wenlock, Shropshire

SIR – Government initiatives to recruit from a wider social base should be welcomed.

High-quality education alone will not ensure a meritocratic society when other factors – such as social class, private family contacts and networking opportunities – skew the way in which individuals are selected for the best jobs.

That fee-paying schools can offer a limited number of free places to deserving, financially disadvantaged candidates is really not the issue. If those few individuals are merely incorporated into a system that still keeps most people out, then nothing will change. Vested interests need to be challenged, and the Government appears ready to do just that.

Philip March

Croydon, Surrey

SIR – I lived under communism in Hungary for 19 years. These were precisely the policies pursued there.

Social engineering is despicable, particularly under a Conservative Government, which should be focusing on providing a decent education and letting individuals succeed if they are capable and prepared to make an effort.

The firms that you mention should be ashamed of themselves. Selection should be based purely on suitability.

George Szabo-toth

Bristol

SIR – Surely there is no need for concern. If these “top firms” begin to engage in social engineering and class warfare, they will rapidly cease to be top firms and their place will soon be taken by firms that select staff on merit, competence and ability, whatever their background.

Scotford Lawrence

Malvern, Worcestershire