IT'S not how much money one spends on education that matters, but rather what is taught.

As a frequent visitor to England from South Africa, I am appalled at the urban decay and social ills that are visible everywhere since my last visit. This has been brought about, I'm sure, mainly as a result of the West African drug trade that is so prolific throughout Great Britain.

Wake up parents, and take control before its too late. Teach your children the three Rs Respect for self, Respect for others and Responsibility for actions.

Teach your children that each gram of heroin purchased directly funds the Taliban, and therefore every heroin user in the world was directly involved in September 11 and is the power behind Osama Bin Laden.

Don't wait for the Government, the schools, the council or any other body to turn the tide. Worldwide it has been proved that the authorities provide too little, too late. Take it up at community level, and start in your own home by ensuring that each member of your household practises respect for self, respect for others and responsibility for actions.

Gail Hickman

Hillside Avenue

Swindon