Plans to set up a pot of money for expanding grammar schools have been criticised by Stroud’s MP as adding “insult to injury” to the “funding crisis” hitting schools in Gloucestershire.

Labour’s David Drew has hit out at the Government’s announcement of a £50 million expansion fund, arguing it comes at the expense of primary schools and comprehensives.

“I was at a meeting with primary headteachers from Stroud last week and they are despairing,” said Mr Drew.

“Schools now face real problems because of the underfunding by the government which is now not funding schools properly for children aged from five upwards.

“Under the government’s new school funding formula, the grammar schools are getting up to a 10% increase, but the other secondary schools in Stroud are getting 1% or under.

“That’s unfair and the £50 million extra adds insult to injury.”

But the Government is only earmarking the cash for grammars that agree to improve applications from disadvantaged pupils.

Stroud has two grammar schools - and one, Stroud High School for Girls, is still mulling over whether to make a bid for some of the cash.

“As a school we are currently evaluating the principles behind the government announcement,” Mark McShane told the SNJ.

“As an Academy we routinely assess and evaluate the bidding processes for capital money.

“We only submit bids where we feel the bid would support our strategic priorities as a school or ensure we remain in line with our vision and values as a community.”

Stroud’s other grammar, Marling, declined to comment.