SCHOOLS can no longer insist on pupils wearing uniforms provided by a sole supplier' under a new law designed to save parents money.

New legislation means that parents must be able to buy their children's school uniform from more than one source.

And Westbrook councillor David Earl (Lib) has called for a uniform approach' to school clothing.

The executive board member for innovation and change on Warrington Borough Council has raised the issue of possible restrictive practice by some schools when they inform parents where to buy their child's school uniform.

He said: "It came to my attention that some youngsters, due to transfer to their local high schools in September, received a home/school agreement' which tells parents to use the recommended sole supplier'.

"I was amazed by this practice as the new DfES code on schools admissions states that any requirement to use sole or nominated suppliers is no longer acceptable.

"For example, the cost of a school blazer from a nominated supplier compared to the cost in a major store is almost three times the store price. This cost difference is totally unacceptable and could impose a financial burden on many families."

Clr Earl says he had contacted the council's children's services department to ask that all schools be circulated a memo to ensure they comply with the new code.

He added: "I question the level of profit made by some suppliers because integral badges are used. Why can't transferable school badges be supplied instead?

"I have been assured that advice will be sent out to remind schools that they can no longer insist on the use of nominated suppliers."

Imran Latif, of Latif and Sons school uniform shop, in Warrington Market, said he believes the new system is fairer.

He sells specific uniforms for several primary and high schools in Warrington, but also offers plain, badgeless uniforms.

He said: "It is better for parents to have a choice, so we have tried to make it a bit easier for parents to come to buy from here rather than paying a lot from a school shop."

ndocking@guardaiangrp.co.uk