Watchdog apologises over Shoesmith evidence error

Ofsted's chief inspector today apologised for failing to disclose potential evidence during Sharon Shoesmith's High Court battle over her sacking.

Ms Shoesmith, 56, was dismissed from her £130,000-a-year post last December after a damning Ofsted report on her department's failings.

The former head of children's services at Haringey council wants the decision to sack her declared unlawful by the High Court.

The inspectorate was forced to admit making a "serious and deeply regrettable error" in failing to disclose notes, emails and a draft report during the high-profile case.

A High Court judge re-opened the case after Ofsted's admission.

Today, Christine Gilbert, the watchdog's chief inspector, said: "This was an error for which we apologise without reservation."

Ofsted is facing a barrage of criticism from councils, head teachers and MPs over the way it inspects services. Council leaders claim the watchdog is more concerned with protecting its own reputation than preventing children from being abused.

Ms Gilbert refused to back down on her tough new inspection system for councils in the aftermath of the Baby Peter tragedy. "Yes, Ofsted has become more demanding of local authorities and I make no apology for this," she said. "If our work saves just one child from abuse, torture or death then this is justified."

Her report warned that councils were still failing to protect children from abuse a year on from Baby P.