A call for action to tackle classroom violence has been made by South West Beds MP Andrew Selous.

Mr Selous said seven pupils are excluded from Bedfordshire schools each day because of assaults, abuse or threats.

He asked Vernon Coaker, minister for schools and learners, to stop students from being sent back after the exclusion period against the school's wishes.

In 2007/08 in Beds, there were 529 cases of verbal abuse or threatening behaviour against an adult, 500 physical assaults against other pupils and 140 physical assaults against an adult.

Mr Selous asked Mr Coaker: "Why does the government undermine schools that exclude pupils by sending some of them back to the same schools, thus putting at risk the education of all the children in those schools?"

The minister replied: "We do not do that at all. In a proper system, schools exclude pupils and pupils have an opportunity to appeal.

"Sometimes it is right for pupils who are excluded to be returned to their schools."

Mr Selous said later: "All children and staff deserve to be safe at school so they can concentrate on learning.

"Exclusion should be a last resort, but is sadly necessary to protect the education of other children in the school.

"Excluded pupils must also be properly taught in pupil referral units. It concerns me that schools are being overruled by exclusion appeals panels."