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Ian Murray
JP back on bench after veil uproar
Alex Scapens20/ 2/2008
THE magistrate reprimanded for refusing to deal with a Muslim woman because she was wearing a veil says he is delighted to have returned to sit on the bench.
Ian Murray, of Bath Crescent, Cheadle Hulme, was back at Manchester Crown Court last week following an absence of more than six months.
But he says the furore surrounding his decision to walk out when faced with niqab-wearing Zoobia Hussain - who subsequently complained - has not diminished his appetite to be part of the judicial process.
He is currently awaiting the outcome of his own complaint over the treatment he received during a probe into his actions, which resulted in a formal reprimand and training on ‘appropriate judicial guidelines’.
Mr Murray, who also works as a taxi driver, said: "I have missed being a magistrate and everything about it, no question about that.
"It’s more important I carry on than give up because of some incident, it is very enriching dealing with all different cases. I have a strong sense of fair play and it gives me the chance to do something about it.
"Everyone has a defence in life for the actions they take, whether it is a good one or not, they have a right to be heard."
A ruling on Mr Murray’s complaint could come as soon as next month.
The issue arose in July last year when Miss Hussain, 32, of Crumpsall, North Manchester, was convicted of criminal damage and appeared with a veil covering her entire face.
It was investigated by the Office of Judicial Complaints who came to a decision in January.
A spokesman said they had "carefully considered all the circumstances surrounding the complaint".
Mr Murray, who has served as a magistrate for 12 years, has had to have additional refresher training on his return, to familiarise himself with two new acts that have been passed during his absence.
He said: "There is nothing I can do about the decision (to reprimand him) - I accept it. But the process is what I am arguing about."
Most recent 2 of 4 user comments
Welcome back to the Bench Mr Murray !!!!
23/02/2008 at 02:21
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Perhaps Terry of Woodley has given a chilling view of the future.
24/02/2008 at 10:40