A LEADING Christian headteacher will call for the re-introduction of corporal punishment and the compulsory promotion of marriage in schools at a meeting in Bolton tonight.

In a speech to be given at Bolton School, John Burn, principal of Emmanuel College, Gateshead, will urge all MPs to back suggested amendments to the new Education Bill.

They would secure a free vote on "regulated corporal punishment" and a legal obligation to promote marriage in all schools.

A recent speech by Mr Burn - a former government education adviser - led to a growing media campaign calling for the restoration of corporal punishment. The campaign has gathered pace in recent weeks as pupil problems in schools have hit the national headlines.

Today Mr Burn, who is also chairman of the Christian Institute, said: "I have always argued that the overwhelming majority of parents support the restoration of corporal punishment.

"In the past few days four public opinion polls have shown that 70 per cent back this move. I am delighted that so many MPs have shown an interest in this issue, including Gillian Shephard."

In tonight's speech he will call into question the controversial moral guidance issued by the School Curriculum and Assessment Authority which has been attacked by many critics for failing to mention marriage.

Mr Burn said: "The omission of marriage from the SCAA's statement of values is a tragic error of judgement. The matter is so serious that I urge MPs to place on schools a statutory duty to promote marriage."

The meeting starts at 7.30pm in the Chorley New Road school's arts and conference centre. Admission is free and bookings are not necessary.

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