Those pushy Muslims never let up trying to change the way we have done things in this country for centuries. Most normal householders would never let a guest start rearranging the furniture and changing the curtains, let alone ripping up the very foundations, but that is what is clearly happening in our national home with Islamic guests on a mission to change our society to suit them.

The issue of purdah and the veil brought to the fore last autumn by former Labour Minister Jack Straw returns yet again; this time causing problems amongst those implementing British law.

A long serving Manchester magistrate who refused to deal with a defendant because she was wearing a full Muslim face veil could face disciplinary action, even suspension from his duties.

Ian Murray, a Cheadle Hulme taxi driver who has served on the bench for 12 years, walked out of Manchester Magistrates' Court on Thursday (28th). 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. If a complaint is received, Mr. Murray will automatically face an internal investigation, a spokesman for the Judiciary of England and Wales said.

“Distressed”

As always the Muslim assumes the role of persecuted victim and 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.

Mrs Hussain covered her entire face apart from her eyes when she faced the three magistrates.

A statement from the Judiciary of England and Wales said: "Mr Murray is concerned about questions of identity when the full veil is worn in court.

"However, he agrees that he acted unwisely in disqualifying himself without giving reasons, and acknowledges that he should have sought the advice of his legal advisor in court, and discussed the provisions of the national guidelines with his colleagues on the bench, before taking action.

Mr. Murray is "continuing to work as normal" while no complaint exists, a judiciary spokesman said.