Michael Howard yesterday sought to exploit government splits on public service reform by portraying Gordon Brown as a wrecker.

The shadow chancellor accused the chancellor of acting as a block to essential reform of public services, denying the extension choice for patients and parents.

"These are the powers and freedoms that Gordon Brown doesn't want them to have. He wants to control everything from the centre. He won't let go of his tight grip. He can't see there is a better way," he said.

"There will be real reform of our public services because Gordon Brown will always block it."