Re the first two comments: When giving evidence to a Court in the UK one has the option of taking the oath (swearing on the bible) or affirming (giving one’s solemn word to tell the truth). In a country not renowned for its active Christianity, how many I wonder actually take the second option.

By the same token why do so many women wear crucifixes or other religious symbols when they appear in Court; is it to persuade the Court that because they profess religiousness they are honourable and dependable citizens and therefore truthful witnesses and/or defendants? The same principle applies to men whose normal garb is put aside in favour of an obviously new suit, shirt, collar and tie....

Re the first two comments: When giving evidence to a Court in the UK one has the option of taking the oath (swearing on the bible) or affirming (giving one’s solemn word to tell the truth). In a country not renowned for its active Christianity, how many I wonder actually take the second option.

By the same token why do so many women wear crucifixes or other religious symbols when they appear in Court; is it to persuade the Court that because they profess religiousness they are honourable and dependable citizens and therefore truthful witnesses and/or defendants? The same principle applies to men whose normal garb is put aside in favour of an obviously new suit, shirt, collar and tie. One can show respect to the Courts without looking like a tailor's dummy.