Sikh Employees

Cabinet Office written question – answered at on 16 March 2005.

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Photo of David Taylor David Taylor Labour/Co-operative, North West Leicestershire

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what the Office's policy is on the wearing of the Kirpan by Sikh employees.

Photo of David Miliband David Miliband Minister of State, Cabinet Office

Cabinet Office policy is that there is no reason that Sikh civil servants or members of the public should not wear the Kirpan in Cabinet Office buildings, except in places where security policy might dictate otherwise and where items such as pen knives or letter openers might be banned. In such cases, the Kirpan would be stored in a secure place at the work location during working hours.

Cabinet Office does not discriminate unfairly on any grounds, including religion and belief. This commitment is set out clearly in our equal opportunities policy, including in our dignity at work statement. In support of this, the Department provides guidance and advice to staff and managers about the use of prayer rooms and on making and handling requests for time away from the office for religious observance. There is one designated prayer room on the Cabinet Office estate and other rooms can be made available for staff to use on request.

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