Posted on May 28, 2009

Muslim Chef Loses Tribunal Case

BBC, May 22, 2009

A Muslim chef who accused the Metropolitan Police of religious discrimination when told he must handle pork has lost his tribunal case.

Hasanali Khoja was told he would be expected to handle pork products at his new job at the Empress State Building in Earls Court, west London.

The 60-year-old from Edgware, north-west London, also said racist gestures were made to him when he complained.

The force was it was “pleased” at the tribunal’s decision.

Mr Khoja said earlier he was “stressed and humiliated” at the prospect of handling pork products, which Islam considers to be unclean.

He said even wearing gloves or using tongs to cook would not protect him from the risk of splashes.

The catering manager had also claimed that he was the victim of racism by an official when he went to discuss his situation.

A Metropolitan Police spokeswoman said: “We are pleased to have been cleared of allegations of discrimination on the basis of religion or belief against Mr Khoja.”

She added: “Mr Khoja remains a valued member of staff.”

[Editor’s Note: An earleir story on Hasanali Khoja’s lawsuit can be read here.]