France’s top legal advisory body has advised the French government against introducing a total ban on the full Islamic veil.

The French government plans to introduce such a burqa and niqab ban, but according to the Council of State, the legal grounds for the legislation would be uncertain. The council said a ban on the veil would only be feasible in certain cases, such as in public buildings or at sporting events, where it could pose a security risk. The report also recommends that women who flout the ban should not face a fine but be referred to a women’s rights organisation.

It is thought that only a few hundred women in France wear full veils. President Nicolas Sarkozy’s UMP party is particularly in favour of a total ban. Party chairman Jean Leonetti has said the UMP may ignore the Council of State recommendation.