Essex education chiefs have 'mishandled and misunderstood' the advice on school photos according to Simon Burns MP for West Chelmsford.

In a bid to stop paedophiles accessing information on youngsters, Essex schools have been advised they can implement an overall ban on photographs at school events if all parents do not give permission.

The advice was taken to the letter by some schools who immediately banned all photographs during the Christmas season of nativity plays.

Mr Burns has accused Essex bosses of political correctness run wild in their dealings over the issue and called on them to review their advice.

Essex education officers say they are now reviewing their guidelines.

Published Friday January 23, 2004

Brought to you by the Essex Chronicle