Selby'S MP will lead the rebels tonight when the House of Commons votes on the Government's controversial school reforms.

John Grogan will join up to 50 other Labour backbenchers who plan to vote against the Education Bill.

Tony Blair faces a test of his authority over his plans to make state schools more independent and hand a bigger role in education to private firms.

Mr Grogan said the changes could prevent poorer pupils getting places at good schools.

He said: "There is no evidence that this is the way to improve schools.

"In Selby, we have very good schools, and a good relationship with North Yorkshire education authority.

"I do not think there is any particular demand or need to change the system here because it works well."

He called for parents to be given a say in whether schools are transferred from local authority control to private or voluntary organisations, and for a cap to be placed on the stake groups can have in a school.

If more than 35 Labour MPs vote against the plans, Mr Blair will have to rely on Tory support to get the Bill through.

Updated: 10:08 Wednesday, March 15, 2006