UKIP denounces government approach to wearing crucifixes at work

Crucifix

The case of four Christians, who have gone to the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg over their right to wear a crucifix at work, has shown the Government's "disgraceful double standards".

Local UKIP MEP Paul Nuttall has criticised David Cameron for his mishandling of the situation - the PM has described the right as 'an absolutely vital freedom' and yet Government lawyers are arguing the opposite view.

"That shows disgraceful double standards and once again demonstrates that Cameron is not a man whose word can be trusted," said Mr Nuttall, UKIP Deputy Leader.

"UKIP deplores the banning of anyone who wishes discreetly to wear some symbol which they have chosen to say something to the world about their identity and who they are. It appears that this Government wishes to drive Christianity from public life. As a party we will campaign against this fundamentally illiberal and oppressive stance on the part of the Government.

"David Cameron, has said he is in favour of ensuring people can wear crucifixes at work, his lawyers says that Christians can 'get another job'. As Prime Minister he could show leadership on this issue and instruct ministers not to oppose these cases.

"People in the British Isles have been wearing crosses to show their faith on and off since the Roman times. For the vast majority of those who wear a modest crucifix either around the neck or as a lapel badge it is no more than a small and discreet statement to the world that they are a practising Christian.

"In reality, it is no more and no less than the exercise of the right of freedom of expression. If the right of employers to forbid such acts of expression is upheld, where will it end? Will it be in order to forbid those who wear charity wristbands from such a display? Will employees wearing lapel pins indicating membership of, say, a political party or a Trades Union or their former Regiment be similarly forbidden? Yet now wearing a crucifix is to become the object of State intolerance.

"I can't help but wonder if the Government would tell the European Court of Human Rights that it is in order for employers to forbid a Jew from wearing a yarmulke at work? Or a Muslim woman from wearing a Hijab?" said Mr Nuttall.