The teaching union Nasuwt Scotland is calling for a national standard of acceptable pupil behaviour with fines for parents who fail to keep their children in order.

The union is proposing a new contract between all partners in education. Parents would need to sign the contracts and there would be penalties for non-compliance.

"Parents must be held accountable for the behaviour of their sons and daughters," said Ian Clydesdale, Nasuwt Scotland's president.

The contract urges parents to ensure homework has been completed, to ensure their children attend school and to support the school in all aspects of its pupil discipline policy.

Parents who fail to comply could be forced to attend parenting classes, be referred to the local social work department, or face cash penalties.