Turkey moved a step closer yesterday to ending a contentious ban on the wearing of the Muslim headscarf at public universities after parliament voted to ease the military-inspired restrictions. The measure is expected to become law after a second vote tomorrow and approval by President Abdullah Gul. But some opposition leaders and university rectors say they will challenge the easing of the ban in the courts, which could prompt a political and legal fight.

Vincent Boland, Ankara For slideshow, www.ft.com/headscarf