Other UK News In Brief

Exams System 'Almost Corrupt'

A former Government adviser has described England's exam system as "diseased" and "almost corrupt." Mick Waters, former Director at the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority, said exam boards are scheming in the dumbing-down of school exams. He added that the boards profit from textbooks that help teachers with the answers to their own exam questions. The comments are outlined in an interview for a book by the outgoing head of education at the National Union of Teachers, John Bangs. In Reinventing Schools, Reforming Teaching, Mr Waters says that before working for the QCA he thought all the criticism about exams being "dumbed-down" was "unfair".

He added: "You know, the old argument, more people passed than ever before. Since I've been there, I think the system is diseased, almost corrupt." Mr. Waters believes this is due to exam boards vying for business in a marketplace. He also said he had heard people from exam boards talking to head teachers trying to sell their qualifications by implying their examinations are easier than those of other boards.

Edexcel, England's largest exam board, dismissed the claims.

Appeal Over Peckham Shooting

Detectives from Trident are appealing for information after a man was shot in Peckham, South East London. The victim, a 20-year old man, was in Chandler Way with friends on September 12 when he was approached by a man who shot him in his thigh. The suspect, a young black man was dressed in dark clothing and made off in the direction of Pentridge Street. The victim was taken to hospital where he underwent surgery. Detective Constable Tom Medcroft, Trident Shootings Team urged any witnesses to come forward: "Chandler Way is a highly populated area and it is possible that there are people who heard or saw the incident who have not yet contacted the police."

Man Jailed After Shooting

A man who shot at door staff and members of the public outside a nightclub, after he was refused entry, has been jailed at the Old Bailey. Abdi Samanter, 29, of no fixed abode, received an indeterminate sentence to serve a minimum 11 years after being found guilty of two counts of attempted murder. The shooting took place outside Sosho Club in Tabernacle Street in Central London on December 14, 2009. Senior Investigating officer, Detective Inspector Michael Millar from the Trident north shootings team, said: "Samanter used a revolver to shoot five times at door staff and members of the public at close range - it was miracle no one was hit. Today's conviction could not have been achieved without the courage and bravery shown by two doormen and a passing taxi driver who chased and caught Samanter even though he levelled his firearm and shot at them. I would like to thank the men for their actions and for giving evidence at court."

(BMcN/BMcC)