Ipswich MP Tom Hunt has called for an increase to Suffolk's "inexplainable" special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) funding.

Speaking to the Treasury, Mr Hunt said young people with special needs must "be given every opportunity to achieve their full potential regardless of the circumstances they were born into".

He also demanded the government address the "random disparities" in funding between counties, adding: "This inexplainable system doesn't currently work in Suffolk's favour." 

East Anglian Daily Times: Ipswich MP Tom HuntIpswich MP Tom Hunt (Image: House of Commons)

Mr Hunt's comments come as the county's current SEND provision faces fierce criticism from the parents and families of children with special needs. 

Many say they have not managed to get suitable places, with others complaining their children have missed years of schooling. 

"We need fairer funding for our schools," Mr Hunt told the Treasury on Tuesday. 

"We must ensure schools and teachers have the resources, the freedom and the flexibility to tailor education around the specific needs of the child.

"We must not stop until we have a system that leaves no child behind."

The Conservative MP also touched upon his own experiences as a child.

"When I was 12 years old, I was diagnosed with dyslexia and dyspraxia," he said.

"I was lucky to have a great support system.

"The sad reality is that for many young children with special educational needs, this is not the cause through no fault of their own.

East Anglian Daily Times: In October, Suffolk County Council agreed a £10 million support package to keep up with increased demand for SEND provisionIn October, Suffolk County Council agreed a £10 million support package to keep up with increased demand for SEND provision

"I will dedicate myself to helping those children, to ensure they have every opportunity to achieve their full potential so their talent is not lost to society."

In October, Suffolk County Council agreed a £10million support package to keep up with increased demand for SEND provision.

Speaking to this newspaper after his speech in the Commons, Mr Hunt said: "We must escalate this campaign. 

"There has to be equal support. Children in Suffolk deserve just as much as children elsewhere. 

"I welcome the government's increased funding at a national level. 

"But we must do more to address this disparity. It is random and inexplainable."