THE government has hinted at cutting summer holidays down permanently with former secretary of state for education Gavin Williamson leading the charge last year.

We asked Gazette readers what they thought about reducing school summer holidays from six weeks to three and you replied in droves.

Here is what you said:

“No but I think the holidays should be shifted so that children are off during the better weather, August is normally awful.”

Holly Ohmke

“Instead of taking about changing holidays to help working people, how about we change work.

“We could reduce the amount of time people need to work to about 25 to 30 hours per person so people have time to raise children, look after elderly relatives and reduce carbon emissions at the same time.”

Matthew Keys

“So how would all those working parents be able to book their holidays in a three week window?

“My husband was at the end of the holiday list and had difficulty getting one week when the children were off, it simply won’t work!”

Yvonne Izzard

“Three or four weeks for the summer holidays would be fine and then extend the half terms to two weeks.

“That makes so much sense and gives more options to go on holidays at different times throughout the year.”

Charmaine Taylor-Cairns

“Ridiculous idea, absolutely impossible trying to book anywhere on holiday with a three-week window when you have children, they get 12 weeks in America.”

Terry Cooper

“Absolutely not! Those complaining about childcare costs probably don’t realise that without the extra income from school holidays, many childcare settings would have to close.

“This could lead to increased childcare costs in term time or no availability when parents do need them!”

Andrew Emrich

“Yes please! Six weeks is far too long and there isn’t an endless supply of money.

“Also working in my business, it is ten times harder to get things done when having to entertain children for six weeks.”

Emma Georgiou Donia