Supply teacher agencies were accused yesterday of profiteering from the staff shortage crisis.

David Blunkett and Tony Blair were told of the problem by a headteacher during a visit to a London school.

Blunkett also warned teaching unions he will fight them over their members' decision to refuse to cover for shortages.

He has declared "war" on militant teachers, reports the Express. It highlights comments in which the education minister blamed "bloody minded" teachers for stoking up the crisis in the classroom.