New government guidance spells out the right of schools to ban students from wearing full-face veils on safety, security and educational grounds.

The Department for Education and Skills stressed it did not mean a blanket ban on veils, and said decisions on uniform are a matter for individual head teachers - as has always been the position.

The new document, drawn up by education secretary Alan Johnson, says schools should consult with parents, governors and the local community on uniform policy in relation to religious dress.

It says where possible they should try to allow religious clothing, but certain garments - such as the full-face Muslim veil - can be banned if they impede safety, security, or hinder learning.

The guidelines were produced to restate the position of schools following events in  February, when a 12-year-old girl failed to get the High Court to overturn her Buckingham school's niqab ban.

They also warn schools not to force parents to buy over-priced uniforms, or face action from the Office of Fair Trading.

Last year an inquiry by the watchdog found uniforms only available through one shop could be far more expensive than those available from cheaper high street retailers.