Rome, Italy, Nov 3, 2003 / 12:00 am (CNA).- Human rights groups in Holland have expressed concern over a new law which, if approved, will take Holland one step closer to sanctioning religious persecution. 

A group of left-wing Dutch lawmakers has proposed the controversial law that would forbid government employees from wearing religious symbols.

According to the law, no government employee could come to work wearing "a turban, a veil or a cross." Supporters say the prohibition will only "ensure the
separation of church and state."

A spokesman for the group sponsoring the law said it was necessary because those employed by the State "should not mix private things like faith" with their
jobs.

The law would affect all religious symbols, no matter their size.  As such a Christian would not be able wear even a small necklace bearing a cross.

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