Tory Right re-opens battle on grammars

The row over Tory policy on grammar schools reignited last night as a senior MP and a former schools inspector attacked opposition to more academic selection.

Edward Leigh, chairman of the Cornerstone group of 40 Right-wing MPs, and former chief inspector of schools Chris Woodhead said all schools should be free to select pupils by ability.

Tory leader David Cameron, who ruled out more grammars except in areas where they already exist, had hoped the three-week row was over.

But in a Cornerstone pamphlet challenging his policy, Mr Leigh and Mr Woodhead said it was inconsistent to allow schools to specialise in almost anything except academic excellence.

They wrote: "We accept the need for specialist music schools, schools with a heavy emphasis on sport, schools for children with special needs.

"We accept a comprehensive with a strong languages, science or technology department.

"What seems to us quite irrational is the political opposition to special schools for the most academically able.

"Children of above average academic ability thrive in an atmosphere of high academic achievement, in the company of children of similar ability."

They want state schools to be given charitable status and be run by a foundation able to hire staff, manage their budget and set their curriculum.

The pair say the power of the teaching unions should be squuezed by offering teachers insurance against the legal cost of accidents involving pupils, since many join unions as cover against the liability.

Parents would also get salary-related vouchers to redeem against the cost of education.