A former anti-terror chief has been appointed to investigate allegations of a hardline Islamist takeover plot of Birmingham schools, sparking criticism it would send the wrong message.
One of Britain's top police officers said Michael Gove's appointment of Peter Clarke, previously head of the Metropolitan Police's counter-terrorism unit, was "desperately unfortunate".
Mr Clarke, who led the investigation into the July 7 bombings, is to work with Birmingham City Council to "analyse evidence of extremist infiltration in both academies and council-run schools".
West Midlands Chief Constable Chris Sims said: "This is a desperately unfortunate appointment. Peter Clarke has many qualities but people will inevitably draw unwarranted conclusions from his former role as national co-ordinator for counter terrorism.
"I am a strong supporter of open and inclusive education for all children in Birmingham and across the West Midlands and am committed to the process adopted by Birmingham City Council with educational and social inclusion at its heart."
Education Secretary Michael Gove is 'extremely concerned' about the claims Mr Clarke's appointment comes the day after it emerged 25 schools were being investigated over an alleged Muslim extremist plot, called Operation Trojan Horse, to force out governors and headteachers.
Whistleblowers - including former staff - have made a number of allegations against schools in Birmingham since the accusations came to light, including one claim the teachings of an al-Qaeda-linked preacher were praised in front of pupils.
Other complaints include the alleged segregation of boys and girls in lessons and assemblies, a ban on sex education and bullying of non-Muslim staff.
Mr Gove said he was "extremely concerned" about the allegations that first emerged when an anonymous letter detailing the scheme was leaked.
He said: "These allegations need either to be substantiated and firm action taken, or to be shown to be baseless.
"We cannot allow uncertainty for parents or pupils to persist."
Ofsted is inspecting a number of schools of concern.
Birmingham City Council is setting up a review group and has already announced it is appointing a new chief adviser to handle at least 200 complaints relating to Operation Trojan Horse.
Mr Clarke is due to report back with his findings on the city's 430 schools in the summer.
Police and Crime Commissioner for the West Midlands, Labour's Bob Jones, said: "This appointment gives the clear impression that the issues around Trojan Horse are predominantly around counter-terrorism issues."
Birmingham City Council leader Sir Albert Bore, said: "Peter Clarke will need to give careful consideration to building a strong relationship with us and, given his recent counter-terrorism responsibilities in London, ensure that his investigation does not undermine the confidence of our communities."
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