Gender equality

In his Perspective article (“Where will gender equality end?”, 5 April), Bill Jamieson seems to have missed the whole point of the discussion about the gender pay gap and equal opportunities.

Clearly it is unfair for two people doing the same job at the same level to be paid differently,but this is what is happening, with women often being paid less than men. Similarly, there should be no discrimination on any grounds when making appointments; all should be treated equally.

Bill Jamieson argues that “it would no longer be acceptable for fathers to view their family responsibilities as being the primary breadwinner”. This is not the case. In an equal world some fathers would be primary breadwinners, some mothers would be and in many cases the “breadwinning” would be shared.

What then happens in the home depends on what couples living together decide is best. If both work full-time, it is right that they should have equal responsibility and work around the house. Often they will get outside help. If one partner does the lion’s share of the work outside the home, the other will usually do more within it, provided both are fit and well.

What the current discussion is about is giving everyone equal opportunities to reach their full potential and equal pay for people doing the same job. So far we as a society have failed woefully in achieving these aspirations using voluntary methods. The debate now is about what we should do to make sure this does happen from now on.

DAVID COLE-HAMILTON Buchanan Gardens, St Andrews