British Prisons Make Allowances for Pagan Prisoners

October 17, 2005

Source: The Times

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/newspaper/0,,170-1829195,00.html

On October 17, 2005 The Times reported, "Pagan priests will be allowed to use wine and wands during ceremonies in jails under instructions issued to every prison governor. Inmates practising paganism will be allowed a hoodless robe, incense and a piece of religious jewellery among their personal possessions. They will also be allowed to have Tarot cards but are forbidden from using them to tell the fortunes of other prisoners. The guidance, issued by Michael Spurr, the director of operations of the Prison Service, makes it clear that Skyclad (naked pagan worship) will not be permitted. Prison staff have been told that pagan artefacts should be treated with respect."