It has been suggested that A-level students and graduates should look into the possibility of running their own businesses.

I think this is wishful thinking. Youngsters can be academically qualified but not yet educated in life's pitfalls.

I am now retired but I worked as an engineer (toolmaker) in industry.

My experience in 50 years of work suggests anybody who has designs to be their own boss has to be in a financially secure, privileged position in their personal life.

Business people tend to come from privileged, middle-class backgrounds and all seem to have family members with much experience of running a successful business.

-Donald Harris, Worthing