Speaking in the House of Commons, Mr Morgan said the Government must address the 'severe shortage' of specialist schools.

She told Parliament this shortage was 'forcing' children in her constituency to endure 'exhausting four-hour round trips'.

The Liberal Democrat MP said the long travel times were affecting vulnerable children and their families, especially given the financial crisis facing local councils.

Addressing the Commons Ms Morgan said: "A severe shortage of specialist provision and a council in dire financial straits is leaving children with severe levels of need in my constituency making four-hour round trips to school every day.

"It’s too much for many of them to cope with.

"Could the Secretary of State outline what steps she's taking and working with local government to reduce these journey times for children who simply can't cope with them?"

Catherine McKinnell MP, Minister for Education, replied: "The Honourable Lady raises a really important point.

"No child should struggle to get to school because of a lack of transport, but also no child should have to travel great distances if there can be a place in their local mainstream school that is inclusive and appropriate.

"And that is what we are determined to deliver for all children."

The Liberal Democrat has previously repeatedly raised the issue of special educational needs (SEN) provision in rural counties like Shropshire, including an 'appalling' case of a child missing a year’s education due to a 'lack of local space'.