The Red Cross has not 'banned nativity scenes for fear of offending other faiths' (Wiltshire Times, December 5).
Neutrality for the Red Cross is not 'political correctness,' nor is it a recent policy. It is a fundamental principle of the largest humanitarian organisation in the world. Put bluntly, it saves lives.
Men and women from across Wiltshire have worked in war zones all over the world for the Red Cross, and can do so in relative safety because of our neutrality.
Former servicemen often express their gratitude for the help provided by the Red Cross during the war, assistance that was only possible because of the strength of this principle.
I would rather we were over cautious than risked compromising neutrality in any way.
The saddest aspect of this issue is the potential impact on local British Red Cross services.
We provide help for people in crisis, whether it is someone needing help after a stay in hospital, loan of medical equipment, or transport to hospital appointments. In the event of a major emergency trained Red Cross volunteers will be among the first to respond.
Local volunteers and staff display a humanity to their fellow man through their daily work. This humanity is surely at the heart of all world religions.
S Morley
British Red Cross
Communications Manager
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article