The government wants 200 academies in place by 2010

The call, by the National Governors' Association, comes after allegations that academy sponsors could receive honours in exchange for donations.

The NGA said the flagship schools had "virtually no accountability".

But at prime minister's questions on Wednesday, Tony Blair said academies were "delivering for some of the poorest and most disadvantaged kids".

'Civic duty'

Last week, head teacher Des Smith - a former government adviser - was arrested and bailed over claims in a Sunday newspaper that he had said donations to academies could lead to an honour.

Mr Smith, who was held for questioning under the 1925 Honours (Prevention of Abuses) Act, vigorously contests the allegations.

Seven academy sponsors have been honoured since Labour came to power.

Teaching unions say the system of relying on wealthy businessmen for donations must be reviewed.

NGA chairman John Adams said: "Becoming a school governor is an important civic duty.

There is nothing to fear and everything to gain from our reforms Department for Education and Skills

"It is essential that those making the appointments are only motivated by a concern for the welfare and educational development of children and young people."

The NGA said "unsavoury information emerging about academies and the way donors have been "encouraged" meant the academies programme should be suspended.

The government wants 200 academies, which replace failing inner-city schools, in place in England by 2010.

Sponsors provide up to �2m, giving them a controlling say in the institution's running.

The NGA said there was a "general concern that, for a modest financial outlay, a sponsor has control of an educational establishment, with a free hand in regard to admissions, pay and conditions of staff and curriculum - with virtually no accountability."

Governors were "gravely concerned that a sponsor can appoint the majority of the governing body in perpetuity" and "remove any connection with the local community", it added.

'Nothing to fear'

A Department for Education and Skills spokesman said: "Entrepreneurs and others who genuinely believe in education and are committed to giving time, commitment and resources should be praised not denigrated.

"There will be a comprehensive set of safeguards in place to ensure that inappropriate organisations do not become involved in trusts."

He added: "There is nothing to fear and everything to gain from our reforms.