There has been a big increase in the number of children with autism in schools according to a survey of local education authorities.

Nine out of 10 of those who took part in a poll said there had been a significant increase in the past five years.

The report - carried out for a pressure group made up of MPs (the All Party Parliamentary Group on Autism) said only one in four children with autistic spectrum disorders have been identified as having special educational needs.

The survey covered England, Wales and Northern Ireland, not Scotland, where the group believes the situation is much better.

Call for stragegy

The report said most councils were unable to measure needs or training levels and that there was no coherent strategy for autistic pupils.

The MPs' group (APPGA) is calling for action from central government.

It wants councils to be required to list the number of children in school with autism, as already happens in Scotland, so there can be more detailed plans about training and educational provision.

The Chairman of the APPGA Dr Stephen Ladyman MP said: "The responsibility for addressing the challenge of autism is beyond the current scope and remit of LEAs.

"The APPGA therefore calls for a central government response to this escalating challenge.

"This must address the knowledge gap, which should in turn inform the deficit in planning, investment and co-ordination."

It is estimated that about 500,000 people in the UK have varying degrees of autism.

People with the condition can have problems communicating with others and in forming social relationships.