SCHOOL discipline could be the key to tackling the rubbish-strewn spots in Worcester, a senior Conservative has claimed.

Christopher Chope, the shadow environment and transport Minister, said headteachers could stop young people being litterbugs.

He spoke out yesterday after being told about problems with rubbish being dropped around the shops at Abbotsbury Court in St Peter's, Worcester.

"It's all about attitude. If pupils at school learn not to drop litter then they are less likely to do it around here. Are schools prepared to let it blow around or use it as a punishment and require pupils to pick it up? It's down to governors and heads but you've got to have not just commands and actions, but sanctions.

"What we say about school discipline is heads have to be given the right to exercise the sanction of suspension or expulsion if pupils are not prepared to co-operate."

Margaret Harper, the Tory General Election candidate in the city, said visits to schools could be made to encourage youngsters. "It is about education and attitudes and making it unacceptable to drop litter," said Mrs Harper.

Roger Knight, a city councillor representing St Peter's, said rats had been seen and that a national campaign like Keep Britain Tidy might be required.

"We need to raise awareness and create a change in thinking in line with drink-driving,'' he said.