Speaking in the House of Commons last week, the junior schools minister said he was encouraged that 15 per cent of schools now provided boxing. He said young sportsmen such as boxer Amir Khan were great role models for young people.
But the British Medical Association has condemned Adonis's comments.
"Boxing is a totally unsuitable activity for children," a spokesman said. "It is dangerous and we do not believe children can make an informed decision about what they are getting into." He added that other sports such as athletics or football can encourage discipline and control but without the risks of brain damage associated with boxing.
Meanwhile, junior children's minister Kevin Brennan said it was vital schools offered pupils the choice of a wide range of sports.
Speaking during a Westminster Hall debate, he said the government intended to establish a network of competition managers and school sports partnerships to co-ordinate young people's sporting activities.
