Michael Gove and his harsh “rigour” regime for five-year-old children needs consideration in East Lancashire as well as the rest of the country. Isn’t there a danger that Mr Gove’s rigour will turn into bullying? School teachers should have respect for children rather than a desire to push every child with harsh expectations.

Mr Gove knows full well that in some countries, children don’t even start school until they are seven years old.

The minister should not put compassion on the ration.

Max Nottingham Lincoln.