This isn't the enlightenment we see in Bahrain, but a gut response of self-interest rather than civic responsibility. The council had made it clear the issue was about funding education. Rather than pay to improve the community as a whole, to better their children's chances, give them a better start in life, Bristol people opted for more money in their pockets. No doubt some of that saved money will go on private education for little Fiona and Jeremy while the rest of their community can make do with fewer teachers and facilities. Still at least Bristol will know whom to blame when its young adolescents get bored, get drunk and get out of hand.
Local democracy puts the responsibility on the people themselves.
I approve of that. But they can't bleat for better services when they have chosen deliberately to cut off the means to get them. There is such a thing as enlightened self-interest. They know that in Bahrain, but not yet in Bristol. Things are hotting up for global warming.