What is the origin of the thread, as plainly pointed out in the links provided, is the fact that some parents are taking their children away on holidays during term time - not 'voting with their feet'

The link that was provided to the BBC article, publicising a programme about this very specific problem, included an interview with Ron Collinson, Liverpool's chief attendance officer who stated that

"We see some families taking holidays two or three times a year," including "times that coincide with exams."

The reason given for this behaviour appears to be purely economic

A 'local factor in Liverpool is the battle between low-cost airlines offering deals from the city's John Lennon Airport.

Parents complain that flights and holidays are far more expensive outside term time and this can dwarf the cost of a fine.'

'The PM programme spoke to one mother who was fined for taking her daughter out of school. She asked to remain anonymous.

"The fine frightened the life out of me," she said, "And I haven't taken her away on holiday since. The problem is that now we can't afford to go on holiday during the summer. It's too expensive."

She said she thought it was wrong to penalise poorer families, but did admit that in her case it has had an effect because her daughter's general attitude has improved tremendously.

"In my case it did work," she said.

"Her attendance has shot right up." '