Labour has hit out over a proposed extension to a Bucks grammar school, saying it serves as a reminder of the county’s “elitist” education system.

Wycombe Labour said the “divisive” plan for Sir William Borlase’s in Marlow to open a “satellite” centre in Maidenhead does nothing to help the more disadvantaged pupils who are statistically less likely to pass the 11+ exam.

And the group criticised Bucks County Council education cabinet member Zahir Mohammed for voicing early support for grammar school extension in last week’s BFP.

Labour’s Rachel Knight said: “I am both saddened and angry to read about Cllr Zahir Mohammed's unequivocal support for plans to extend Bucks' existing grammar schools.

“It serves as a stark reminder of the elitist attitude of some of the powers that be in Bucks.

“His comments show a complete lack of appreciation for the many families across Bucks who will have received the news last week that their 10 year old did not pass the 'eleven plus' exam.

“He gives no consideration to recent statistics and reports which have confirmed that in 2015 in Buckinghamshire, the grammar school system remains biased towards those with pre-existing privilege, does nothing for social mobility and creates a divide between children that is unnecessary and potentially harmful. “

Borlase wrote to parents this week saying it is “exploring all options” over a possible extension plan, which has been put under the spotlight after the government approved an annexe site for a grammar school in Kent.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead is discussing spending £200,000 to investigate the possibility of a grammar school within the borough.

Ms Knight said secondary schools that would be affected by the proposed grammar should have the right to vote on any proposal to introduce selective education.

Maidenhead’s Labour Party said that spending taxpayers’ money to help open a new grammar school would be “an appalling waste of money”.