Even with compensating income transfers to poorer people, who benefit in absolute terms less than the better-off from the tax relief, the idea is politically unpalatable.

ECONOMIST: Peter Hain touched a sensitive spot

"It's been an absolute honour and a privilege to play with him and even more so to call him a mate, " said McGrath.

BBC: Ponting leads praise for Hayden

There have even been cases where pupils have had to stay overnight with teachers, where there have been "absolute clashes" between exams.

BBC: 'Four exams a day' nightmare