April 23, 2010
Source: BBC News
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/8639432.stm
Sikh police officers who wear turbans cannot join firearms teams, following a ruling from the Association of Chief Police Officers (Acpo).
Officers can choose instead to wear a smaller head covering known as a patka, which will fit under a helmet.
The Acpo guidance follows consultations with the Home Office and a range of police associations representing Sikhs.
In 2009, a tribunal awarded £10,000 to a Sikh officer who was ordered to remove his turban during riot training.
The British Sikh Police Association asked for a clarification from Acpo following the award, and proposed a "ballistic turban" that would provide head protection.