Papers consider hijab controversy

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The row over headscarves worn by Muslim women, which was sparked by comments made Jack Straw, is reported in a number of Saturday's papers.

The Independent believes he "fanned flames" with his comments on Radio 4's Today programme about preferring Muslim women to stop wearing veils altogether.

However, the Times argues that the Blackburn MP should not be isolated for speaking out on separation.

And the Daily Express is shocked that a politician said what he really thinks.

Improve or move?

The lead story in the Daily Telegraph highlights findings that nearly 20% of homes in England are now worth more than £250,000.

These homes are caught in what the paper calls Gordon Brown's higher-rate stamp duty trap.

And the Daily Mail says the average tax bill for a house purchase has more than doubled since Labour came to power.

It says thousands have opted to "improve" rather than "move", by building extensions.

'Brink of insanity'

The Mail and the Guardian both use their front pages to remind readers that they are serialising David Blunkett's memoirs.

The former home secretary tells the papers about the personal strain of his doomed affair with Kimberley Quinn - saying it drove him to the "brink of insanity".

The Daily Mirror reports that the wife of golfer Ian Woosnam was rushed to hospital due to a stomach complaint.

It says she was rushed to hospital after vomiting blood.

'Messages of hate'

The lead story in the Sun involves an alleged dispute between members of the Muslim community in Windsor and four soldiers who served in Afghanistan.

The paper says the soldiers' house had bricks thrown through windows and had been "daubed with messages of hate".

And the Express has visited the world's newest democracy.

From 1565 until last Wednesday the Channel Island of Sark was ruled by 40 land-owners. Now, every adult can vote for representatives to govern them.