The proposed reforms have proved to be controversial

Critics have said a bill to be debated in the Commons later this month would result in local authorities having less control over education.

But the UK Government said the bill's aim was to give schools more freedom.

Ewan Aitken, spokesman for the Scottish Convention of Local Authorities, said Scottish schools were hugely successful and did not need major change.

The government claims the bill has been widely misunderstood.

Unveiling the proposed reforms last October, Education Secretary Ruth Kelly said parent power would be the driving force behind improving England's schools.

Under the proposals, groups of parents concerned about underachieving schools can ask their local authorities or Ofsted inspectors to intervene - or else set out plans for the creation of their own school.

If local authorities reject proposals, the parents can appeal for adjudication - which Ms Kelly said could lead to the government forcing local authorities to fund such new school projects.

Newly-created trusts would run individual schools or else groups of schools, under the leadership of a successful school or an outside organisation, such as a university, business or faith group.