Prague

A Slovak government plan to introduce student loans and tuition fees of 3,600-21,900 koruna (£60-£365) seems likely to cause a brain drain to the neighbouring Czech Republic, where young Slovaks will be able to study free of charge.

The proposed legislation has been condemned by Rudolf Schuster, the Slovak president, who described it as socially divisive. If the legislation is passed, President Schuster can refuse to sign it and a two-thirds majority will be required to overturn his objection.