Howard in challenge over special schools

Michael Howard opened a new battle over public services today with a pledge to stop special schools closing.

The Tory leader accused ministers of sweeping away schools for children with disabilities and learning difficulties "on a tide of political correctness".

Mr Howard's intervention - backed by a promise to set up a ?10million research institute - follows campaigns on health and mainstream education and marks a determination to move into traditional Labour ground.

Some 91 special schools have closed since 1997, although the trend began under the Conservatives. Mr Howard said the trend has been accelerated by new laws saying all children should be taught in mainstream schools where possible.

"Children with special needs are among the most vulnerable in our communities, the most in need of a structured, safe, secure learning environment and the hardest hit when it's not available," he said.

"Special needs require special attention - attention denied to too many children with special needs by Mr Blair's misguided policy."

Aiming his words at women voters, he continued: " Bringing up children is a challenge at the best of times; but bringing up a child with special needs can be doubly so."