Learning from Thatcher era

The challenge, from David Cameron's perspective, is to not only learn lessons from past mistakes, but also help those capable young people who are being denied a university education because of an unprecedented shortage of places.

The urgency of this task was laid bare by yesterday's A-level results, and how the meritorious achievements of so many were overshadowed by the desperate scramble through the "clearing" process for degree opportunities.

Yorkshire was no exception; it is widely expected that a record number of prospective students will have to be turned away, largely because the last Labour government failed to fund sufficient places to meet the raised aspirations of teenagers who followed the advice of Ministers and sought a university education.

This failure has then been compounded by the shortage of jobs in the labour market. The consequence? Even more applicants for university courses at a time when higher education faculties are being badly hit by the public sector spending squeeze.

As such, it is even more important that those students fortunate enough to secure a university place do not squander the opportunity. They are in a privileged position, despite the financial hardships that will follow for many. Nevertheless, many of their peers would happily swap places with them.

The Government's task, however, is more fundamental. While Mr Cameron and his Ministers will not be able to resist the temptation to score some political points, their primary role is to provide some leadership. They also need to demonstrate that their commitment to social mobility is not just a hollow platitude, especially given the extent to which the new A* grade appears to have favoured students from independent schools rather than the state sector.

In short, they need to show how "education for all", a noble aspiration, can be achieved in an age of austerity, and, just as importantly, how all those without adequate qualifications – or university places – can be inspired when there are few jobs available.

What is certain is that the country cannot afford to be burdened by another jobless generation.