Mr Cameron wants issues of deprivation tackled

Tory leader David Cameron said schools in "tough" areas needed to attract good teachers with higher salaries.

Mr Cameron said inner city schools should be able to force parents to sign "contracts" to make sure children behave properly to improve discipline.

And schools must ensure all pupils are taught basic English.

Mr Cameron called on inner city schools to promote healthier eating patterns, as well as the benefits of exercise.

"Pupils in inner cities often have worse levels of nutrition and overall health than those in other areas," the charter states.

"Schools in these areas should play a key role in tackling this."

The charter also calls for stronger links with local voluntary groups.

The charter comes as ministers prepare for a Commons vote on the government's education reforms on Wednesday.

'Bold'

Giving details of the charter at Kobi Nazrul Primary School in Tower Hamlets, London, Mr Cameron said all parents wanted the best quality of education possible for their children.

"The government's education bill takes a few steps in the right direction, which is why we'll support it.

"But our ambitions are bolder. We're going to stand up for those parents and children who live in our inner cities, where too many schools fail too many children.

"And we're not afraid to confront the difficult questions. For example, why shouldn't schools have the freedom to reward good teachers? Why not set all children according to their ability?"

'Catch-up mode'

Schools minister Jacqui Smith accused the Tories of being in "catch-up mode".

"Mr Cameron today posed questions on education in inner-city areas," said Ms Smith.

"For the answers he needs only to look at Labour's record in government - 1,300 failing schools turned round and faster GCSE improvements in inner city areas.