Police have launched an investigation into allegations that an Asian student at Oxford University was sent racist e-mails telling him to quit.

The offensive messages were sent to Nadeem Ahmed, a Hertford College graduate studying medieval Arabic, saying he would be better suited to working in McDonald's.

Mr Ahmed is currently involved in legal proceedings against the University claiming unfair treatment over exams set by its Oriental Institute.

Thames Valley Police confirmed that two students had been questioned, and computer equipment had been seized in connection with the allegations.

A spokesman said: "One person has been bailed pending further inquiries, and the other has been released without charge."

Lawyers for Mr Ahmed and Oxford University went to Oxford County Court yesterday to examine points of law over the student's allegations of racism.

The judge asked for more information to be exchanged between the two sides, so that each could prepare their arguments.