An Australian politician has been highly criticised after making remarks about autistic children in schools.

Pauline Hanson, an Australian politician famous for holding controversial opinions, suggested that students with autism should be removed from classrooms.

Her comments were quickly rejected by the country’s own government, as well as various disability rights campaigners.

“These kids have a right to an education, by all means, but, if there are a number of them, these children should go into a special classroom and be looked after and given that special attention,” she said.

“It is no good saying that we have to allow these kids to feel good about themselves and that we do not want to upset them and make them feel hurt.”

Experts were quick to point out that research showed inclusive education is beneficial to students with and without disabilities.

Emma Husar, of Australia’s Labor Party, said she was “angry and disappointed” by Ms Hanson’s comments.

“She owes an apology to every single autistic child in this country, every one of the parents who are like me because we got better things to do than to defend our kids,” she said.

“I have got one thing to say to every single child on the autism spectrum who is going into a classroom today, whether that’s a mainstream class, whether that’s a support unit or a school with a specific purpose – that you matter.

“That you can be included and you ought to be included. And that even on the days that are hard, when you’re frustrated and your disability makes you angry, you’re still better than she is on her best day.”