A Manchester magistrate who refused to deal with a defendant because she was wearing a full Muslim face veil could face disciplinary action.
Ian Murray, a Cheadle Hulme taxi driver who has served on the bench for 12 years, walked out of Manchester Magistrates' Court on Thursday.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/m...er/6254506.stm
Ian Murray, a Cheadle Hulme taxi driver who has served on the bench for 12 years, walked out of Manchester Magistrates' Court on Thursday.
Zoobia Hussain, 32, of Crumpsall, who is charged with criminal damage, plans to write and complain, her lawyer said.
Mr Murray said he had been concerned about the defendant's identity.
'Deeply embarrassed'
If a complaint is received, Mr Murray will automatically face an internal investigation, a spokesman for the Judiciary of England and Wales said.
Hussain's lawyer, Judith Hawkins, said: "She [Mrs Hussain] remains shocked and distressed.
"She suffered hurt feelings and felt intimidated and deeply embarrassed by the treatment she received at court.
"She is also concerned for the feelings of others who were present in court."
Mrs Hussain covered her entire face apart from her eyes when she faced the three magistrates.
Mr Murray said he had been concerned about the defendant's identity.
'Deeply embarrassed'
If a complaint is received, Mr Murray will automatically face an internal investigation, a spokesman for the Judiciary of England and Wales said.
Hussain's lawyer, Judith Hawkins, said: "She [Mrs Hussain] remains shocked and distressed.
"She suffered hurt feelings and felt intimidated and deeply embarrassed by the treatment she received at court.
"She is also concerned for the feelings of others who were present in court."
Mrs Hussain covered her entire face apart from her eyes when she faced the three magistrates.
Comment