Parents are to be given vouchers to "buy" state education in a school of their choice under plans set out by the Conservatives.

Under the "state scholarship" plan - a revival of the assisted places scheme - parents would be allowed to use the voucher to choose a school from the independent or state sector.

"Our proposals will give real power to parents so that they can get the best for their children. We are determined that children do not get left behind in failing schools," Conservative leader Iain Duncan Smith said.