The government has announced a £200m fund for grammar schools to expand - even though it is still consulting over proposals for new ones.

The Chancellor Philip Hammond made the announcement as part of his Autumn Statement today but while the news has been welcomed by many Conservative MPs, it has not gone down well with others.

Mr Hammond said: “The government’s education reforms have raised standards and expanded opportunity with 1.4 million more children now in ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’ schools. And the new capital funding I have provided today for grammar schools will help to continue that trend.”

The Treasury said the money would be available from next year and would be used to expand existing selective schools.

Labour attacked the plan, with senior party figure Andy Burnham questioning in a tweet why money could be found for grammar schools but not for social care.

Labour county councillor Roger Truelove said the government appeared to be retreating from its wider initiative of allowing new grammars.

“All these other authorities who want new grammar schools are not going to get them. It is just a bit of political flag waving.”

But Conservative county councillor Andrew Bowles welcomed the news.

He said: “It is a sign of intent by the government which is welcome as it shows the direction of travel.

"The government has a belief that grammar schools can be very effective in giving a ladder of opportunity to poorer brighter pupils.”