Lord Falconer will say teachers should use common sense

He is expected to tell the National Association of Head Teachers' annual conference that teachers who act properly should not fear legal action.

He will back the decision of a Luton school to stop a Muslim girl wearing the jilbab, a long gown.

But he will stress the need for schools to consider the local community.

Lord Falconer will tell the conference in Bournemouth human rights are based on freedom, equality, tolerance and respect which are truly British values.

Sensitivities

They are not at odds with common sense decisions, he will say.

The Lord Chancellor will argue those who act properly in response to issues such as those raised in Luton should not fear a legal challenge under the Human Rights Act.

Find out about different styles of Muslim headscarf In graphics

He will also stress schools should weigh up the sensitivities of their local community when devising policies on issues such as school uniforms.

Last year, the Law Lords ruled that Denbigh High School was justified in banning Shabina Begum from wearing the jilbab but it took a lengthy legal battle before this was established.

She had worn the shalwar kameez - trousers and tunic - and headscarf to school before saying her religion required her to wear the jilbab.