12.01.12
Seeking social mobility
Nick Clegg's social mobility campaign is seeking to improve conditions for young people trying to gain work experience, and those already in internships. Clegg has already come under criticism for using his father's contacts to gain work in the past, as have the Liberal Democrats for using unpaid interns.
While this is a blatant instance of hypocrisy on his part, this does not undermine the value of the plans. It does however create a confusing series of cause and effect that lead to this move; if Clegg hadn't had his dad's help, he wouldn't have gained experience, perhaps not have progressed this far into politics, and so would not have been in a position to make this very proposal.
Aside from this, it is questionable to what extent curbing parents' consideration for their own children above others is possible. They will always want the best for the people closest to them, and will be willing to use whatever means possible to achieve this. This may be too deeply ingrained into our society to eradicate.
The current culture is unfair. But restricting parents' powers to promote their children's futures could also be labelled unfair and will surely be opposed by those who are suddenly faced with greater competition for a dwindling supply of jobs.
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