Teachers to frisk students

Teachers are to be given the authority to search pupils for drink, drugs, cigarettes and stolen property. Ed Balls, the Schools Secretary, will give the go-ahead for a sweeping extension of teachers' existing powers to search teenagers for weapons.

In a report today Sir Alan Steer, the Government's behaviour adviser, dismisses suggestions that the conduct of children is worsening. But he calls for urgent action to tackle the problem of youngsters smuggling drink on to school premises.

Mr Balls confirmed last night the Government would legislate to give school staff stronger powers to check for illicit materials. He said: "We need to ensure schools have the powers and support they need to maintain good behaviour and stop drugs and alcohol use entering school. It will ensure that everyone knows a teacher's authority in the classroom is unquestionable."