THE standard of behaviour in Britain's classrooms has been a hot topic this week.

The annual report by the chief inspector of schools, David Bell, showing behaviour in schools is in decline, follows passionate declarations by the Government and the Tories that they will get tough on discipline in schools.

The foundations of good behaviour, of course, have to be laid in the home and reinforced in schools.

We do not want to go back to the dark days of corporal punishment, but children must know where the line is drawn.

But when it comes to setting standards, it is also worth reflecting on the example shown by 22 men kicking a football around this week.

Footballers are among the most influential role models for young people, and the mutual hatred which has developed between Arsenal and Manchester United is nothing short of a disgrace.

Before a ball was even kicked, we had players squaring up to each other, issuing threats, and uttering clear obscenities.

Once the match was under way, television viewers saw some great football, but they also witnessed unashamed cheating, swearing at the referee, and violence.

Is it really any surprise that teachers have problems coping with misbehaviour and swearing among pupils?

Footballers are paid salaries beyond the wildest dreams of most people. They have a clear responsibility to set standards.

Quite frankly, it is high time some of them grew up.