Parents could face £100 fines if their children are taken on holiday in school time without agreement.

Education minister Ivan Lewis revealed on Tuesday that the government is to step up its fight against truancy.

Headteachers will be allowed to give 10 days leave from lessons for families that cannot take time out during the summer break but the minister said this should be "the exception, not the rule".

But families who fail to notify the school will face a fine of £100.

The move is part of new powers given to headteachers under the Anti-Social Behaviour Act which comes into force from the start of the New Year.

"Taking a holiday during term time can mean that children miss important school time and coursework and it will be difficult for them to catch up later on," said Lewis.

"Taking a child out of school for a holiday without the head's permission is unacceptable and will be treated as truancy."

The Association of British Travel Agents has backed the government, urging its members to remind parents of their new obligation.