Equal access to everything is not practical

The letter “Equal opportunity for all children is the counter to ‘parentocracy’” (Sept 1) states that every child should have equal access to classes such as computing, drawing, dancing, music and sports.

That is ideal, but is it practical?

Can we ask the teachers to give free services, for example? Schools can give equal access to these classes, but should or can we prevent wealthy parents from providing better facilities than those in schools?

Are we to go a step further and clamour for equal access to tastier food and better toys, clothes, cars, holidays, homes or even Class A wards for every child?

Improved access is possible, which is why we want meritocracy. Equal access is a dream, which was why communism did not work.

We should not contemptuously label “parentocracy” on all those who can afford better things for their children.

Not all the rich are filthy; they have the right to enjoy the fruits of their labour. Not all the poor are virtuous, but they should have opportunities to labour for better lives.

We should neither leave the poor to live in squalor nor demand that the rich get out of their mansions.

Let us not be callous to the less fortunate, because that is inhuman.

Let us not be jealous of the more fortunate, although that is very human.