LONDON — The new British government has declared its intention to do all it can to improve standards of education in Britain. This was also a high priority for the previous Labour administration. As prime minister, Tony Blair used to declare that his mantra was "education, education, education."

New schools were built and more teachers recruited. Nursery education was expanded and ambitious targets were set for achievement by pupils. Despite the resources expended, the results are generally seen as disappointing. British educational standards overall are less than they should be if Britain is to remain competitive. Britain is not unique in this respect. Similar complaints can be heard from people in the United States, France, Germany and Japan.

What are the reasons for the comparative failure in most democratic countries to improve educational standards? Critics lay the blame on three main factors: bureaucracy, teaching methods and parenting — or officials, teachers and parents.