their children.

And they also received low marks for failing to involve themselves in school activities.

The stern reprimand was delivered by the National Liberal Party as it repeated its backing for corporal punishment.

It comes amid continuing concern over pupil discipline in the Island's schools -- and the best way to combat the problem.

NLP spokesman Mr. Austin Thomas said the cane was a vital -- and caring -- tool of discipline.

It helped instil the child with a sense of discipline, he claimed.

"There is no magic wand, that at the age of maturity, turns an undisciplined child suddenly into a responsible, caring and mature parent.

"In fact, teachers, bus drivers and others in public service will tell you that many times parents are more offensive and worse behaved than their children.'' The NLP backed corporal punishment because it demonstrated a positive and understood method of authority.

"We believe too, it is more effective if it is introduced at home rather than at school.

"Cajoling and the reduction of TV time are very passive acts that are being used now by parents who demonstrate no authority.'' Mr. Thomas said surveys showed worse behavioural problems were found in schools where parents failed to involve themselves.

"This poor involvement by parents in schools demonstrates our immediate problem. Not in the undisciplined children, but in the uncaring parents of those children.

"In the meantime, corporal punishment in schools will demonstrate to those who lack discipline that there is authority, something they no doubt yearn for and are not getting.''