British Military 'banned from taking the knee' in support of Black Lives Matter movement

The British Military has reportedly banned soldiers from taking the knee in support of Black Lives Matter protesters over claims it is a "political" gesture.

According to the Daily Mail, commanders told personnel at HMS Sultan in Gosport, Hampshire, that when in uniform the soldiers should not take the knee.

A defence source said: "When they are in uniform, they are not allowed to take part in any political activity. With taking the knee, it is becoming a political movement.

"When you are in uniform there are long standing rules for how you should behave.

"The armed forces and the MoD is absolutely against racism in any form and wants to stamp it out."

The defence source said they are currently reviewing the policy to find a way "in an appropriate situation" that soldiers can show their respect.

Former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick has been credited with inspiring the 'take a knee' gesture after the ex- San Francisco 49ers star dropped to one knee during the American national anthem at a pre-season game in 2016 to indicate his anger at racial injustice in the US.

The incident triggered backlash from critics who dubbed the action “unpatriotic” and “disrespectful”, or resented the alleged politicisation of sporting events.

During weeks of BLM protests across the UK, a police officer was filmed taking the knee with protesters.

Police officers around the world made the gesture as a show of support of people demonstrating against police brutality after the death of George Floyd.

Meanwhile Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab caused a stir when he claimed taking the knee appeared to be more a "symbol of subjugation" than one of "liberation and emancipation".

"I take the knee for two people; the Queen and the Mrs when I asked her to marry me," he said.

The Ministry of Defence has been contacted for further comment.

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