Shadow education secretary Stephen Twigg has lambasted the government's free schools policy, arguing that the long-term plans are in disarray.

Mr Twigg launched a scathing attack on the concept after it was confirmed that more than half of the free schools set to open later this year are still to find a site.

"With half of his favoured free schools without a site for their opening in September, parents will be concerned that the government's approach to new schools is too much of a gamble," he added.

"The government's approach to school buildings is chaotic."

Mr Twigg called on the coalition to reconsider its original plans and take a proactive approach to the anticipated population surge.

Despite the revelation that most free schools are unprepared for the new academic year, a Department for Education spokesman said that the government is not unduly concerned by the issue.

In fact, he told people seeking teaching jobs and others that its focus remains on delivering great new schools.

Capita - one of the leading permanent, part-time and supply teaching agencies in the UK.