The French government could close all schools in an attempt to curb the spread of swine flu, should the virus become more virulent in the autumn, the ­education minister said ­on Wednesday.

Luc Chatel said that in the event of a “total pandemic” he was ready to order a total shutdown of all schools in France, during which time lessons for pupils aged between six and 17 would be broadcast on public television and radio and posted on the internet.