I NOTE in the Oxford Mail on June 19 comment is made regarding the level of school absenteeism Of course we as parents/grandparents should be concerned if children are continually absent from school.

But do the figures include those children whose parents try to give their children a family holiday but who cannot afford the vast increases set by holiday companies during school holidays?

Many, if not most, give some educational benefit to the child – foreign language, the importance of family and travel experience.

When a government removes the well meaning but stupid restrictions on children having time off in term time perhaps the figures will improve.

CHRIS PAYNE
Turnpike Road
Bicester