I was shocked to read about the parents who had lied about their home address to get their child enrolled in a prestigious primary school (Couple fined for giving false address in Pri 1 registration; Jan 30).

This is no different from those who cheat in exams and scam people.

This breach of honesty not only deprived another child of a chance to get into the school, but also set a terrible example for their own child.

The Government should slap parents like that with the heaviest fine possible. They must be held responsible for their actions.

Their punishment will also serve as a deterrent to others in the future.

However, the couple should not be jailed as it is the child who would suffer most.

I hope the court considers punishment other than a jail sentence every time a case like this comes up.

Hai Ou Fan, 17

Junior College Year 1 student