UK is run by privately-educated chummy club

The report by Social Mobility and Child Poverty Commission makes worrying reading and shows the country is basically run by a chummy club. The high percentage of the privately educated among politicians, the judiciary, armed forces and media is not representative of the general population and it is no wonder the man in the street feels they are out of touch.

This report shows Britain is a deeply elitist country and that must change. It harks back to a much earlier age, but life has moved on and social mobility demands more.

The key lies in improving standards in state schools and it is essential we bring back grammar schools which truly provide a level playing field for all. Ambition is vital to success and it can be achieved from whatever background with top-class teachers dedicated to their work. Students from all backgrounds should be educated to the highest standards so the divide between the state and privately educated is reduced. And instead of pushing virtually all students to go to university it should be for those with the highest grades who can then be more competitive in the jobs market.

Change will not come overnight, but demanding the highest standards from state schools will lead the way.

Paul Nuttall

UKIP deputy leader