[Busman747]

Originally Posted by jambutty

A policeman was excused duty when he objected to standing guard at the Israeli Embassy because, it has been reported, that his wife was Lebanese had he relatives in Lebanon.

Another thin end of a wedge?

What’s next? “Sorry Sarg I cannot police the Manchester United match. I’m a City fan.”

The copper in question should be sacked as should his superior who agreed to his request.

Having given great thought to this subject - and at the risk of actually agreeing with Willow, I think that this officer is within his rights to ask that he not be assigned to this task.

The situation between Lebanon and Israel is very current, how could he possibly protect those that he sees as the murderers of his or his wifes countrymen?

Coppers are allowed to be anti-royalist, so would the authorities choose one such to guard the Queen or her family with their lives? of course not! If the policemans view is known, he would not be selected But he wouldn't be sacked! Can you imagine an Argentinian born Naval officer taking part in the fight for the Falklands? it would never happen. - but the officer would not be sacked!

There are so many situations where those that have an "interest" have been quietly put aside for the duration of the conflict or whatever - and their skills/training/talent has been put to use elsewhere.

So I think that this policeman was right in (as politicians say) "declaring an interest", and his superior was right in agreeing to change his duties.