Leading article: A lesser degree

The news that an amazing 60 per cent of graduates are now getting first or upper second class degrees shows that grade inflation has reached new heights and that degree classifications need to be pensioned off. We agree with the inquiry group led by Bob Burgess, the vice-chancellor of Leicester University, that the system needs reform. A new arrangement in which students are given a simple pass/fail degree and a short transcript of their achievements - on the American model - would provide employers with more information than they get now.