* The TES should be congratulated on seeking parents’ views about selection (“Put local children first, say parents,” TES September 24). It is interesting to see that 56 per cent believe that schools should give priority to those living nearest.
For parents living near successful schools this is perhaps not surprising.
However, one wonders if parents living in low-income areas and close to failing schools would entirely agree. Should they not be free to choose?
It is also a shame that only 1,000 parents were questioned on such an important issue. If The TES really does have faith in parents priorities, then it should campaign for school vouchers which will allow parents to express their preferences on a regular basis.
James B Stanfield School of education University of Newcastle