London – A British official says a U.K. diplomat has been suspended following his arrest for an alleged anti-Semitic rant in a London gym.
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As was reported here on VIN News on Feb. 9th., Middle East expert Rowan Laxton, 47, was watching TV reports of the Israeli attack on Gaza as he used an exercise bike in a gym.
Stunned staff and gym members allegedly heard him shout: ‘…… Israelis, ….. Jews’. It is alleged he also said Israeli soldiers should be ‘wiped off the face of the earth’.
His rant reportedly continued even after he was approached by other gym users.
At that time a complaint was made to police, and Mr Laxton was arrested for inciting religious hatred through threatening words and behavior, but has not been charged.
Today Foreign Office Minister Gillian Merron told members of Parliament that Laxton, had been suspended from his job at the Foreign Office and will face disciplinary proceedings. Merron also said that the police investigation continues.
Laxton coordinated work on South Asia and briefed Foreign Secretary David Miliband about the area.
Suspension from his job makes sense. Arrest does not.
He can always come here and work in Hillary’s State Department. They will welcome such an outspoken Anti-Semitic remarks. Kudos to the British.
He was given a two week vacation to the south of Dubai and a Citation of Merit for Anti-Semitism. Good job old man said the British Foreign Office. Next time please join me in the Foreign service gym and the club for gin and tonics. Cherio.