" A lot of girls annoy me who go to university – one girl told me she was going to Oxford because it was something to do between leaving school and getting married. And I’ve got to pay for that being an income tax payer. "
- Jeffrey Bernard

In the quote, Jeffrey Bernard expresses his frustration with certain individuals who pursue higher education without genuine dedication or serious intentions. He mentions a specific example where a female student declares her intention to attend Oxford University merely as an activity before getting married, implying that she sees university as a trivial phase rather than a crucial part of personal and academic development.

The deeper meaning of this quote highlights the disparity between superficial motives for education and genuine pursuit of knowledge and growth. Bernard's frustration stems from the idea that taxpayers like him are indirectly funding the tuition fees for those who do not take their studies seriously, thereby undermining the value of hard-earned educational opportunities. This sentiment touches on broader societal issues regarding respect for institutions of higher learning and the importance of personal responsibility in utilizing such resources effectively.

Jeffrey Bernard was a renowned English journalist and broadcaster known for his witty and often satirical writing style. Born in 1935, he became popular through his contributions to The Spectator magazine and later gained fame with his BBC Radio series "Inky Issues." His work frequently dealt with the quirks of London life and cultural observations, making him a distinctive voice in British journalism.