Richard Maxwell Project

I've been doing a little research into what people actually have to say at these citizenship ceremonies. They can choose whether or not to pledge to God, but HAVE to pledge allegiance to the Queen.

I (name) do solemnly, sincerely and truly declare and affirm that on becoming a British citizen I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to her majesty Queen Elizabeth II, her heirs and successors according to law

I will give my loyalty to the United Kingdom and respect its rights and freedoms. I will uphold its democratic values. I will observe its laws faithfully and fulfil my duties and obligations as a British citizen.

Out of curiosity, I checked what oath people had to take when they joined the British army.

I swear by Almighty God that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, her heirs and successors and that I will as in duty bound honestly and faithfully defend Her Majesty, her heirs and successors in person, crown and dignity against all enemies and will observe and obey all orders of Her Majesty, her heirs and successors and of the generals and officers set over me.

Others replace the words "swear by Almighty God" with "solemnly, sincerely and truly declare and affirm".

Any similarities, anyone? Thought that was a little bit weird. Also, is an anti-royalist any less of a citizen? I certainly wouldn't pledge allegiance to the Queen, but my British citizenship has never been questioned. Do we expect more of people coming into our country than we do of ourselves?

Just some musings of mine. I'd be interested to see what other people thought.

Jennie xx

// posted by danrebellato @ 9:34 AM