Before condemning "irresponsible" parents who "turn their children out on to the streets un-chaperoned" (Letters, June 5), we should pause to consider the pressures today's parents endure.
Mothers are expected to have a job, whether from the pressure for socio-economic advancement or, if they are on their own, because of poverty. Fewer mothers have time or energy to devote to their children.
A sensible community would provide safe, carefully-monitored out-of-school provision so children can satisfy their need for activity and social interaction.
But at least Government is turning its attention to this problem.
Blaming parents may make those, such as Mr Wootton, feel better but it solves nothing.
-RG Jenkins, Hove
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