Nanny’s got it wrong

We live in a nanny state and the golden rule is that Nanny knows best - even when she has clearly got it wrong.

Nanny, in the shape of government ministers and local councils, says traditional old folks’ homes are outdated.

The preferred 21st Century alternative is independent living in sheltered accommodation.

As these apartments and flats have been built, residential homes have been closed.

But if this policy is so wise, then why are so many old people against it?

In all the grand strategic planning, did anyone think to ask the elderly what they actually wanted?

As we report today, residents of homes across this region are furious at plans to close the homes and re-house them.

And no wonder. While some old folk may enjoy living independently, many others obviously prefer the higher level of care - and the constant companionship - that goes with living in a residential home.

The bottom line in this issue, as in so many others in the public sector, is not care but cash.

The fact is that purpose-built residential homes are expensive to build, furnish and staff. Building small one or two-person apartments is a cheap and flexible option.

We all understand that governments and councils must keep within spending limits. But when they try to present a cut-price solution as something better and life-enhancing, people are not fooled.

The ideal solution would be individual living for those who want it and residential homes for those who feel they need it.

But that would cost more money than this Government is prepared to pay.

Promises do not improve schools

If the Government betrays us in our old age, its track record with young people is little better.

In today’s pre-Budget statement, Chancellor Gordon Brown will announce a multi-billion pound programme of investment in school building. But even if we get new schools for old, what of the quality of teaching?

In a cruel blow to Mr Brown’s prime-ministerial ambitions, his announcement today coincides with a report he commissioned from Lord Leitch.

It is damning. It reveals that five million adults cannot read and write properly and 17 million have trouble with basic arithmetic. Lord Leitch says Britain is heading for “undistinguished mediocrity.”

That is the honest epitaph on a government which promised education, education, education.

After nearly 10 years in power, New Labour is still better at making promises than making real improvements.

What’s that, Mr Brown? More promises?