Knives found on 52 school pupils

Scanners could be set up in some schools, the Home Office says

Fifty-two pupils were caught with knives in Greater Manchester schools over the last two years - 12 of them at primary schools, police confirmed.

The figures, released by Greater Manchester Police (GMP), showed that 38 incidents took place at secondary schools and two at colleges.

Last month, the Home Office said that metal detectors could be installed in schools to combat violent crime.

GMP said knives accounted for a small proportion of crime in the region.

A spokesman said: "We work closely with schools to educate children about the dangers of carrying or using knives."

On Thursday, a report said increasing numbers of children were carrying weapons to defend against bullies.

Head teacher support

Children's Minister Kevin Brennan said the report provided a valuable insight into the views of vulnerable children.

He said: "We should remember that incidents with knives are incredibly rare."

Although the Home Office has said metal detectors could be used in schools, the National Union of Teachers (NUT) said they should only be installed in areas where there was a problem.

Spokesman John Bangs said: "Head teachers, if they believe they want to enhance school security - including metal detectors - because of a specific problem, should get full backing to do it. Money should not get in the way.

"It will be a small number of head teachers, thankfully, but they need that support."