While it is both commendable and admirable of the pupils of West Ashton Primary School to raise funds for school equipment and resources (Lottie cuts off locks for cash, Wiltshire Times July 17), we have to ask the question, why is fundraising for school equipment necessary?

The UK is the sixth richest country in the world (despite the Tories continually telling us there is no money), there is a record number of millionaires and billionaires residing in the country.

The Government is planning to renew Trident at a cost of £100 billion, billions have been spent on wars in Iraq, Afghanistan and Libya, now David Cameron tells us that the country will be dropping bombs over Syria, causing death, destruction and misery and creating anger and more terrorism the world over.

Why is it that British governments can find billions for war but can't find adequate money for education, healthcare and other vital services?

Martin Webb, Swindon Road, Old Town, Swindon.