This article examines the minefield that now surrounds admissions starting with a comparison of the relatively easy system of the 1950s and early 1960s and the complexity of multiple admission authorities of today. Taking evidence from a range of agencies, including government official bodies, and admission issues, the article aims to show that a major factor in non-compliance with good and fair admissions practice is the rise of 'own admission authorities'. Their increase comes directly from structural changes to the provision of schools. The article concludes that to deal with the problem, an incoming Labour government cannot ignore those changes. The article supports the proposal of Comprehensive Future for a root and branch review of admissions.